By Kantarawaddy Times
At least 49 civilians were killed and 86 injured in Karenni State between January and September 2026 due to military-related attacks and other incidents, according to data collected by Kantarawaddy Times (KT).
The nine-month tally covers only the cases KT was able to document. The actual numbers of civilian deaths and injuries, and of attacks on the ground, may be higher.
According to the records, the junta carried out aerial and drone strikes on civilian homes, farms, and workplaces in Karenni State, including areas where no fighting was reported
During the nine months, civilians were killed or injured in incidents that included:
• 31 drone attacks
• 20 airstrikes
• 17 artillery attacks
• 5 landmine incidents
• 3 shootings targeting civilians
• 2 accidental artillery explosions
• 1 case of arrest followed by killing
Drone attacks were the most frequently recorded incidents, followed by airstrikes and artillery attacks.
The junta’s increasingly frequent airstrikes and drone attacks on civilians are also taking a psychological toll on residents and internally displaced persons (IDPs), said a displaced woman from the western part of Demoso Township.
“Now it seems almost everyone is being affected psychologically. We are always listening for aircraft, artillery fire, or drones. Reconnaissance planes fly overhead almost every night. We cannot sleep peacefully because we are worried about what might happen next. We do not know when we will be able to live in peace again. All we feel is fear,” she said.
On Oct. 9, the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF) stated that the junta has been deliberately targeting civilians who are not involved in the conflict, including children and pregnant women. The group said attacks have also targeted IDP camps, schools, and hospitals. KNDF stated that the use of jet fighters, Y-12 aircraft, and drones in these attacks constitutes war crimes and violations of human rights.
According to KNDF figures, 32 airstrikes and 27 drone attacks were reported in Karenni State and Pekhon Township during August and September. The attacks killed 20 civilians and injured at least 57 others. KNDF also warned residents to remain alert, saying that the use of kamikaze drones and attack drones has become more frequent.
