An explosive device caused slight damage to the Chinese Consulate in Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city. Fortunately, there were no casualties reported from the incident that occurred on Friday. The attack has not been claimed by any group or individual.
China, a key ally of Myanmar's military, has been facing resistance forces challenging the military rule that took power in 2021 after ousting the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. The military confirmed that the two-story Chinese Consulate's roof tiles were damaged by the explosion on Friday afternoon.
The security forces are actively investigating the incident to apprehend those responsible for the blast, referring to them as 'terrorists.' The military is currently engaged in nationwide fighting against pro-democracy guerrillas and ethnic minority militias.
Last year, ethnic armed organizations dealt significant blows to the military in the country's northeast, seizing crucial territory along the border with China. These gains have weakened the military's position nationwide, causing concern for China regarding the stability of the military government.
China, a major arms supplier to Myanmar's military and its largest trading partner, has invested heavily in Myanmar's infrastructure. The military government faces sanctions from many Western nations due to its 2021 takeover and human rights violations.
Independent media outlets reported that Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the head of the ruling military council, is expected to travel to China in the coming weeks. The attack on the Chinese Consulate in Mandalay's Chanmyathazi township has led to increased security measures in the area.
The shadow National Unity Government, a key opposition group, condemned the attack on the consulate, emphasizing its commitment to opposing actions that may incite racial and religious conflicts.
