The Myanmar Mechanism calls for information about aerial attack on school

Geneva, 14 May 2025 – The Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar is calling for all those who witnessed or have direct information about an aerial attack on a school in Oe Htein Kwin village in Sagaing region to share their evidence. The attack on 12 May 2025 reportedly killed up to 20 students and wounded dozens more. 

This bombing is one of numerous airstrikes reported since the devastating earthquake in March, and the subsequent ceasefire that was declared by the Myanmar military and other parties to the conflict.  

Airstrikes that are indiscriminate or which target civilians may be war crimes or crimes against humanity. Attacks against children are particularly heinous, and the Mechanism prioritizes their investigation.   

This tragic incident follows dozens of attacks on schools in Myanmar since the military takeover in February 2021 which have caused the death and injury of children, including in Ye-U District, Sagaing Region (September 2022); Matupi Township, Chin State (November 2023); Demoso Township, Kayah State (February 2024); Pekon Township, in the border area of Shan and Kayah States (September 2024); and Ponnagyun Township, Rakhine State (December 2024). 

The Mechanism is looking for relevant information on these or any other aerial attacks, such as: 

• photographs or videos of injuries, damage, or expended explosives; 

• information about victims; 

• information on planes and/or weapons that were used; and 

• any information known about the pilots involved and the orders that were given. 

Anyone with information to share should please contact the Mechanism on Signal +41 76 691 12 08. The Mechanism urges people to prioritize their safety and to only make contact when it is safe to do so.