Allegations of Myanmar Military Using Banned Weapons

Allegations and investigations of Myanmar military's use of prohibited weapons including chemical and incendiary substances. Anti-coup forces raise concerns.

Mae Sot, Thailand – The recent attack from the sky by the Myanmar military has raised concerns among anti-coup forces. Allegations of using banned and restricted weapons, such as white phosphorous, have led to calls for investigation.

The Kachin resistance fighters experienced a drone attack that injured several men, prompting urgent medical attention in a hidden hospital deep in the jungle.

However, alarming symptoms emerged in the patients, with one showing rapid necrosis not typical of blast wounds. Doctors struggled to explain the sudden deterioration in their conditions.

Investigations revealed suspicions of chemical weapons usage, violating international laws banning the production and use of such substances. Myanmar's military, known for previous allegations of utilizing banned weapons, is now under scrutiny for potential war crimes.

Banned weapons

Aung Nge sitting on a floor cushion in a shelter. He has large bandages around his left foot and knee.

Under international conventions, the use of chemical weapons like tear gas and other riot control substances is prohibited. Despite these regulations, Myanmar's military has faced accusations of using such weapons in the past.

Recent encounters with potentially noxious weapons raise concerns among various ethnic armed groups, urging for independent verification of the claims.

The Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar is actively looking into the alleged use of chemical weapons by the military, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation and accountability.

‘We tried to escape’

An unexploded projectile stuck on the roof of a house following fighting between Myanmar’s military and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) in northern Shan State [File: AFP]

In response to military offensives, resistance forces have reported incidents of air strikes causing illnesses and injuries among civilians and fighters. The aftermath of bombings in key towns near the border has led to health complications and forced evacuations.

Allegations of using incendiary weapons have surfaced, highlighting rights abuse concerns and the need for international monitoring and intervention.

‘The more oxygen, the more it burns’

The use of incendiary weapons by the military has sparked further investigations into the deliberate targeting of civilians. Allegations of using prohibited munitions, such as white phosphorus, raise alarms among rights groups and frontline medical aid organizations.

Reports of respiratory injuries and intense burning symptoms have fueled demands for accountability and intervention to prevent further human rights violations.