Bangkok: An air strike by Myanmar’s military on December 5 targeted a tea shop in Mayakan village (formerly Depayin) in Sagaing’s Tabayin township, killing at least 18 civilians and injuring 20, according to a local resident and independent media reports.

The attack occurred shortly after 8 p.m., with two bombs dropped by a jet fighter exploding soon after air raid sirens sounded. The tea shop was filled with people watching a Myanmar vs. Philippines football match on television. Among the victims were a five-year-old child and two schoolteachers. Over 20 nearby houses were also damaged.

Tea shops in Myanmar serve as communal hubs similar to Western neighbourhood coffee shops, where locals gather to eat, drink sweet tea, socialise, and stay connected.

The resident, speaking on condition

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