Dozens killed in horror paraglider bombing raid at major Myanmar festival

At least 24 people have been killed while protesting Myanmar's military government after a paraglider dropped two bombs on the crowd.

Around 100 people - who had gathered in Chaung U township in central Myanmar on Monday to celebrate the Thadingyut, the end of Buddhist Lent - were the target of the government's bombs.

The area targeted is a key battleground in the military junta's conflict with armed resistance groups dotted around the country. Volunteer militias established after the coup, known collectively as the People's Defence Force (PDF) control huge swathes of Myanmar.

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They also run local administration in the areas of their control. One official reported the attack during Monday's gathering to BBC Burmese.

Officials tried to stop the protests, but the assault was rapid, with the bombs being dropped within seven minutes, he said.

The man said he was also hurt in the explosion, sustaining injuries to his leg, but he also witnessed people near him being killed.

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