Panic grips Sittwe after deadly reported Y-12 airstrike

Panic has gripped Sittwe after an aircraft reportedly dropped bombs on the city at around 8:00 a.m. on October 23, causing civilian casualties and prompting residents near the blast sites to seek refuge elsewhere.

By Admin 23 Oct 2026

A scene inside Sittwe pictured in 2022.
A scene inside Sittwe pictured in 2022.

DMG Newsroom

23 October 2026, Sittwe

Panic has gripped Sittwe after an aircraft reportedly dropped bombs on the city at around 8:00 a.m. on October 23, causing civilian casualties and prompting residents near the blast sites to seek refuge elsewhere.

Preliminary reports indicate that at least six civilians, including one Muslim resident, were killed and at least 30 others injured when bombs struck crowded commercial areas around Ywa Min Gyi Junction and Shwe Nga Junction, also known as Mawleik Junction.

Residents living near the blast sites have temporarily fled their homes, fearing further attacks.

“People living near the explosion sites do not dare to stay there and are temporarily taking refuge in nearby neighbourhoods,” a female resident of Sittwe said. “The overall situation in the city has become significantly more chaotic than before.”

Markets and shops across the city have also closed following the reported bombing.

“Markets have completely shut down now,” another female resident said. “Ever since the bombing, people are too afraid to step outside their houses.”

DMG is continuing to investigate the incident and monitor developments following the reported aerial attack.

On September 8, an artillery shell exploded inside the compound of Basic Education High School No. 4 in Sittwe, injuring a teacher and three students.

Fighting has intensified around Sittwe as the military junta seeks to defend the city, increasing concerns among residents over the risk of further attacks.