Myanmar airstrike kills 3-year-old child in Karen State near Thai border

Mae Hong Son - A tragic incident unfolded on October 25th when a 3-year-old child, critically injured in a Myanmar military airstrike, died while being transported by boat to Thailand for medical assistance. The attack targeted Mae Nue Tha village, situated on the Salween River near the Thai border. Phongpipat Meebenyamat, chief of Mae Sam Laep Subdistrict Administrative Organisation in Mae Hong Son's Sop Moei district, confirmed the airstrike's impact on the village.

The attack left the child critically wounded, and despite efforts, he succumbed to his injuries during the boat journey. The airlift of the injured was a humanitarian mission, but the child's fate was beyond rescue. Thai authorities had received prior notice to prepare for possible arrivals of displaced individuals in line with plans set by Thailand’s National Security Council.

No Thai citizens were found on the Thai side of the border as of Monday morning, with the majority of those who crossed returning after the tension subsided. However, the source cautioned that tensions in neighboring Myanmar could escalate, with Myanmar troops potentially launching additional strikes and ethnic armed groups preparing to defend themselves.

While the situation on the Thai side remained unaffected, authorities were closely monitoring the evolving circumstances.