A devastating paramotor attack during the Thadingyut festival in Chaung U township, central Myanmar, has resulted in the deaths of at least 24 people and left 47 others wounded, according to a spokesperson from the exiled National Unity Government. The incident occurred on Monday evening as approximately 100 individuals gathered to celebrate the Buddhist-rooted national holiday, which also served as a candlelight vigil protesting the policies of the ruling junta. A local official from the anti-junta People’s Defence Force reported that a motor-powered paraglider dropped two bombs on the crowd, causing widespread destruction and chaos. Witnesses described the scene as horrific, with bodies torn apart and identification of the deceased proving difficult. Amnesty International condemned the attack, labeling it part of a ‘disturbing trend’ of using paramotors to target communities. The junta’s increasing reliance on such methods is attributed to international sanctions limiting access to conventional military equipment. The attack has prompted calls for urgent protection of civilians and increased pressure on the junta from regional bodies like ASEAN. The vigil also highlighted broader grievances, including opposition to military conscription and the upcoming December elections, which critics argue will not be free or fair. The conflict in Myanmar, ongoing since the 2021 military coup, has claimed over 5,000 civilian lives, according to UN estimates.