By Kantarawaddy Times
Despite the Myanmar military council’s declaration of a nationwide ceasefire, airstrikes and artillery attacks in Karenni State—including along the Shan-Karenni border—have resulted in the deaths of 13 civilians and injuries to more than 20 others, according to a casualty list compiled by Kantarawaddy Times.
Based on the outlet’s verified data, the attacks took place in areas such as Bawlakhe and Mawchi in Karenni State, as well as in Pekon and Mobye along the Shan-Karenni border. Among the injured, 15 were harmed by airstrikes, while 8 suffered injuries due to artillery shelling.
Of the 13 people killed, 11 died as a result of airstrikes and aerial bombings, while 2 were killed by artillery fire. Furthermore, among the 13 fatalities, the victims include 8 men, 3 women, and one infant, while the identity of one victim remains unconfirmed.
The figures presented reflect only those verified by Kantarawaddy Times, and the actual number of casualties and fatalities on the ground may be higher.
“Even though the SAC announced a ceasefire, we cannot simply accept it—we don’t trust their declaration because their actions say otherwise. Whether they declare a ceasefire or not, they continue their operations. What happened in April clearly shows that they did not honor the ceasefire. Therefore, civilians must always remain alert to protect themselves,” said a local man.
The military council initially declared a ceasefire from April 2 to April 22, following a nationwide earthquake on March 28. The ceasefire was later extended until the end of April.
However, during this so-called ceasefire period, the military launched artillery strikes on Dee Maw Hso and Loikaw Townships, and conducted aerial bombings in Mawchi (Hpasawng Township), Mese Township, and Pruso Township. Additionally, the military reportedly continued its daily airstrikes and artillery attacks in other parts of Myanmar.
According to a May 1 statement from the Progressive Karenni People’s Force (PKPF), the military carried out a total of 109 airstrikes across Karenni State and the central Kayan region between January and the end of April 2025.
