The Mon Liberation Army (MLA) launched a drone attack on the opening ceremony of the Kyondoe-Gyaing Bridge in Hpa-An Township, Karen State. According to sources, the attack was carried out by the MLA’s Spring UAV Force – G3 Fixed-Wing unit using two drones.
On the morning of February 9, prior to the official ceremony, three bombs were dropped on the site as preparations were underway. The attack resulted in the deaths of three junta soldiers and injuries to at least five others, according to an MLA statement.
“A number of high-ranking officials were present, including ministers and the regional commander. As soon as they cut the ribbon, they quickly fled. I saw three soldiers injured and taken away in a vehicle. Unfortunately, a local vendor near the primary school by the old bridge also sustained minor injuries,” an MLA official reported.
Following the attack, the MLA expressed regret over the civilian casualty and issued a warning urging the public to avoid junta-organized ceremonies, festivals, and gatherings. The group also advised civilians to stay away from military checkpoints, bases, and junta-controlled areas.
The Gyaing Bridge opening ceremony was attended by U Myo Thant, Union Minister for Construction; U Saw Myint, Chief Minister of Karen State; Colonel Banyar Win, Deputy Commander of the Southeastern Regional Military Command; U Nyo Nge, Chief Justice of the Karen State High Court; U Nyi Nyi Zaw, Minister of Transport and Communications of Karen State; along with other government officials and approximately 100 attendees.
