The military junta conducted an airstrike on Saizang village in Tedim Township, northern Chin State, despite there being no ground fighting in the area, killing six family members instantly and injuring others, according to residents.
A man from Saizang village said: “Around 11pm, bombs were dropped on the village. Six people from one family died— the husband, wife, and their children were among them. Others were injured as well. Houses were also destroyed.”
“Since this was the first time they bombed here, it’s probably meant to intimidate. I think it’s a tactic to scare civilians and pressure us not to resist in Tedim,” he added.
The airstrike claimed the lives of six family members: Pa Pau Sian Kham, Nu Cing Sen Don, and their children Kham Ho Van, Cing Sian Nuam, Suan Deih Sian, and Kim Deih Piang. Another person sustained serious injuries, according to reports.
Saizang village, located about seven miles from Tedim town, is a large village historically inhabited by Chin chieftains.
Due to the lack of phone and internet connectivity in the area, communication with residents remains challenging. Fearing further airstrikes by the junta, villagers are fleeing to avoid conflict, sources say.
Following the announcement on 9 April that the Chin Brotherhood and allied forces had seized Falam town in Chin State, the junta has conducted continuous airstrikes across the region.
On the night of 9 April, an airstrike in Fwi village, Mindat Township, killed a Christian pastor and five family members, according to reports.