KIA, PDF terrorists use suicide drones against MNA passenger aircraft

KIA and PDF terrorist combined groups, with the intention of undermining regional development, disrupting the government’s administrative mechanisms, and destabilizing local peace and security, have been recklessly carrying out destructive acts. On 12 February, they committed an attack on the airport in Myitkyina, Kachin State, using FPV suicide drones.

At around 8:12 pm on 20 February, the KIA and PDF combined terrorist groups carried out another attack. An ATR-72-600 passenger aircraft operated by Myanmar National Airlines (MNA), which plays a vital role in facilitating civilian travel and the swift flow of goods unrelated to military affairs, was at Myitkyina Airport preparing to depart for Mandalay after boarding passengers. At that time, KIA and PDF combined terrorist groups launched a malicious attack using FPV suicide drones with the intent to cause death and injuries among civilian passengers.

In the incident, the aircraft sustained minor damage after being struck by bomb fragments on the nose section, the mid-fuselage, and the tail. Security personnel promptly carried out necessary evacuations to safe areas and conducted assistance and rescue operations. There were no injuries or fatalities among passengers or crew members in the incident.

The deliberate attack on a civilian airline that significantly supports public transport and the swift flow of commodities unrelated to military affairs constitutes a war crime under the Geneva Conventions and international law. Hence, not only residents but also people across the country have strongly condemned and denounced these terrorist acts with revulsion. Security forces are continuing to carry out necessary area security operations and will undertake effective and firm countermeasures.

MNA/TTA

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