UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk has condemned Myanmar military airstrikes that reportedly killed at least 50 people at a crowded market in Rakhine State, warning that the death toll could rise.

The strikes hit a market in Kyauktaw township around midday Monday, killing vendors, customers, transport workers and other civilians, including women and children, according to the UN human rights office.

At least 58 people were also reportedly injured in the attack, which the UN described as one of the deadliest attacks in Rakhine since the military seized power in February 2021.

The market had more than 200 shops run by members of several communities, including Rakhine, Rohingya, Hindu and Daingnet communities. It was crowded when the airstrikes occurred.

Extensive damage is seen at a crowded marketplace following Myanmar military airstrikes near Kacchapanadi Bridge and India Market in Kyauktaw, Rakhine State, on September 28 / Collected 

According to Anadolu Agency, the attack has raised fresh concerns over the conduct of hostilities in Rakhine, where fighting between the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army has intensified in recent years.

“This latest attack raises serious concerns about respect for international humanitarian law with respect to the conduct of hostilities,” Turk said, stressing that all parties must uphold the principles of distinction, proportionality and precautions in attacks.

The UN rights chief also cited reports of arbitrary arrests, torture, sexual and gender-based violence, enforced disappearances, forced labour and forced recruitment in Rakhine State.

Turk's warning came as Malaysia began implementing a plan to deport around 5,000 Myanmar nationals, with the UN official calling for the process to be halted immediately.

“This is no time to return anyone forcibly to a country plagued by egregious human rights violations and abuses,” Turk said.

He said conditions in Myanmar remained “far from safe and sustainable” and urged countries to support refugee-hosting nations such as Malaysia and Bangladesh by providing alternative solutions for people fleeing persecution and conflict.

Turk also reminded states of their obligations under the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits the forcible return of people to countries where they face persecution, torture, serious harm or other grave human rights violations.

The latest airstrike adds to growing concerns over the worsening humanitarian situation in Rakhine, where civilians from multiple communities remain caught between armed conflict, displacement and restrictions on humanitarian access.

 

 

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