At least 42 civilians were reportedly killed during a military operation in Myitche Town, located across the river from Bagan in Myanmar’s Magway Region. The operation, which lasted for several weeks, also left nearly 1,000 homes destroyed and forced tens of thousands of people to flee their communities.
According to local sources, a joint column of Myanmar military troops and allied Pyu Saw Htee militia members entered the Myitche area on May 10. The force, reportedly consisting of around 500 personnel, remained in the area until June 2 before withdrawing. During that period, residents said dozens of civilians were killed.
Bodies Found Across Town and Villages
After the troops left, local people discovered bodies in different parts of the town and nearby villages. Reports stated that many victims included children and elderly residents. Some bodies were found in advanced stages of decomposition, making identification difficult for families.
Witnesses and local sources also described signs of severe violence on several victims. Reports claimed that some bodies showed evidence of torture and physical abuse before death. The findings have raised concerns among residents who returned to inspect the affected areas after the military column withdrew.
Large-Scale Destruction Reported
In addition to the reported killings, widespread property damage was recorded across the region. Local sources said the military column burned large sections of Myitche’s central market and residential neighborhoods.
Several nearby villages, including Swae Gyi, Ywar Thar Aye, Man Kyee Kone, and Htan Naung Kone, were also affected. Residents estimated that nearly 1,000 houses and buildings were destroyed by fire during the operation. Many families returned to find their homes reduced to ashes.
Thousands Forced to Leave Homes
The violence caused a major displacement crisis in the area. Local reports estimated that nearly 40,000 people from Myitche Town and surrounding villages fled to safer locations during the military advance.
Many displaced residents sought shelter in nearby communities while others moved farther away to avoid the fighting. As the situation remains uncertain, families continue assessing the damage and searching for missing relatives. Local communities are now facing the difficult task of rebuilding their lives after weeks of violence and destruction.
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