7 December 2021

On 7 December 2021, Myanmar military troops reportedly raided the village of Done Taw, Salingyi Township in Sagaing Region [22.138278, 95.055861]. This was, according to a report by Myanmar Now, following a mine ambush on military vehicles on the Monywa-Pathein highway near North Yamar bridge, located at 22.149591, 95.057023, about 300 metres from the village.

Salingyi is an area which was reportedly targeted by convoy-centred Operation Alaungmintayar in November 2021. Just days before this incident, Salingyi residents reportedly engaged in anti-regime protests . Locals interviewed by Myanmar Now state that military soldiers entered the village from near the Pathein-Monywa road at 0800. Done Taw has only one entrance and exit route, through the Shwe Myin Tin farm on the bank of the Chindwin River.

According to villagers and a local PDF leader (reported by Myanmar Now and The Irrawaddy), 11 villagers were reportedly captured, set on fire, and burned to death. A video uploaded to social media by various media outlets shows the aftermath of the attack, including the burnt remains of bodies (graphic footage – available on request). The video’s voiceover states: “They were shot and stabbed while forced to kneel, with their hands tied”.

Read Myanmar Witness’ report for more information.