December 10

 

The landmark Thiri Mingalar Myoma market in Loikaw town in Karenni State was burned to the ground before dawn on December 10.

 

Residents claimed mo firefighters even dared to go to the market, which started ablaze at 1am. The public facility was completely burned four hours later, at dawn.

 

"No one dares to go there. I heard some places near the market were also destroyed. No one knows caused the fire; whether it was artillery shelling or arson,” a resident said.  “We didn't even dare to put out the fire. Everyone stay at home".

 

The market was built 30 years ago and it became a landmark in Loikaw. It was the biggest public market in town and many people around the region shop and trade there.

 

Photo: Jobs for Kayah

 

Burma Associated Press