An artillery shell launched by Junta forces struck Sittwe's Myoma (main) Market, the capital of Rakhine state, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals and injuries to approximately 30 others.

An artillery shell launched by the Junta's navy near Sittwe Point hit U Maung Maung Than warehouse according to a female vendor, around 8:30 am on February 29th. This market

is  situated to the west of Yan Pyay Marn Pyay Pagoda, and in close proximity to Myoma market.

"I was selling goods near the vegetable warehouse when the artillery shell hit it. The warehouse owner was killed. I got hit by shrapnel and had to run away fast. Many people were hurt, but I could not tell the exact number as I fled”, she told Narinjara.

She noted that given the crowded market conditions at the time of the artillery shell hit, there could potentially be a high number of fatalities and injuries.

An aid worker informed Narinjara that the deceased and injured were being transported to Sittwe General Hospital, with estimates indicating up to 7 fatalities and 30 injured individuals.

"It is estimated that around 7 people have died, though the actual number might be higher. About 30 individuals are thought to have been injured. The victims encompass people of all ages, from the elderly to those in their 20s”, he said.

The warehouse hit by the artillery shell belonged to U Maung Maung Than, and functioned as a vegetable warehouse. Although there are reports suggesting that U Maung Maung Than might be among the deceased, Narinjara cannot independently confirm this at the moment.

Narinjara is currently conducting further investigations into the specifics of the incident.