The attack reportedly targeted a market and a nearby bridge in territory controlled by the Arakan Army (AA), an ethnic armed group seeking greater autonomy for Rakhine.

Fighter jet drops two bombs near market

According to the Arakan Army and local rescue officials, a Myanmar military fighter jet dropped two bombs near the market around noon.

The attack took place in Kyauktaw township, located around 340 km west of Mandalay.

The market was reportedly a major wholesale centre and was crowded with vendors, shoppers and pedestrians when the strike occurred.

The Arakan Army said it would take "effective measures" against the individuals and organisations responsible for attacks that have caused mass casualties.

Several unverified videos circulating online appeared to show damaged buildings and vehicles, as well as parts of a nearby bridge destroyed in the attack.

The Myanmar military is yet to respond to the allegations.

Why Kyauktaw matters

Kyauktaw is strategically important as it is under the control of the Arakan Army, which has made significant territorial gains across Rakhine.

The AA launched a major offensive in November 2023 and has subsequently captured 14 of Rakhine's 17 townships, according to reports.

The Myanmar military has been fighting the AA as part of the wider civil war that began following the February 2021 military coup, which removed the elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi.

Wider pattern of airstrikes

The Kyauktaw attack comes amid continuing Myanmar military air operations in areas held by ethnic armed groups and pro-democracy forces.

Earlier in September, reports said military airstrikes in Karenni State killed at least 11 civilians between September 1 and 15.

In August, another reported military airstrike in Thandwe township in Rakhine killed 14 people and injured 11, according to the Arakan Army.