At least 40 people were killed and dozens injured after an aerial attack struck a Buddhist festival in central Myanmar, officials and witnesses said.

Eyewitnesses reported that a paraglider “dropped explosive devices on a crowd gathered for the Thadingyut full moon festival” in Chaung-U Township, Sagaing Region — an area known for anti-junta resistance. Videos showed “burning stalls, damaged vehicles, and people fleeing in chaos.” One resident recalled, “We were lighting candles and offering prayers when we heard a loud buzzing sound. A few seconds later, explosions went off — people were screaming everywhere.”

Rescue workers confirmed that women and children were among the 40 dead. Many victims were rushed to local clinics, but “medical care in the region remains limited due to ongoing conflict.”

The National Unity Government condemned the strike as “a deliberate act of terror against innocent civilians celebrating a religious holiday.” The military council has not commented.

Sagaing has faced intense violence since the 2021 coup that ousted Aung San Suu Kyi’s government. Rights groups and the UN accuse the junta of “targeting civilians with air and drone attacks.” As Myanmar marks Thadingyut, a festival of light and respect, many now grieve amid the darkness of war.