A powerful explosion in a building in northeastern Myanmar has killed at least 46 people, including six children, and injured more than 70 others, local rescue services reported. The blast also damaged over 100 nearby homes.

The incident occurred on the afternoon of May 31 in Kaungtup village, Namhkam district, about three kilometers south of the border with China. The area is controlled by the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), an ethnic armed group that occasionally clashes with Myanmar's central authorities.

According to a statement on the TNLA's official website, the explosion was caused by improperly stored gelignite, an explosive used in mining. The exact circumstances are still under investigation.

TNLA representatives have pledged full support to the families of the deceased and injured, as well as assistance in relocating residents whose homes were damaged.

Source: kun.uz