Myanmar Military Accused of Burning Church in Kachin State

The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) has accused Myanmar's military of burning down a church building in Bhamo township, Kachin State, in what the armed group describes as a deliberate act of destruction. The allegation adds to mounting reports of damage to civilian infrastructure and religious sites in areas affected by the protracted conflict between regime forces and opposition armed groups.

Bhamo township has experienced repeated clashes and military operations since the military coup in February 2021 triggered widespread armed resistance across Myanmar. The town, located in the southern part of Kachin State, has seen its civilian population displaced and infrastructure damaged as fighting intensifies in the region.

The burning of the church, if confirmed, would represent another instance of destruction targeting religious facilities. Various international observers and humanitarian organizations have documented incidents involving damage to mosques, churches, and temples across conflict-affected areas in Myanmar during the past three years.

The military junta has not yet responded to the KIA's allegations. Access to Bhamo township remains restricted, making independent verification of incidents difficult for journalists and international monitors.