BREAKING: Earthquake claims 144 lives, leaves over 730 injured in Myanmar

At least 144 people have lost their lives, and more than 730 others sustained injuries after a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, according to the country’s military government leader.

A significant aftershock, recorded at 6.4 in magnitude, followed the initial quake, with tremors felt in neighboring Thailand and China.

Officials from Myanmar’s military-led administration reported that the earthquake caused structural collapses as far away as Thailand.

In the capital city, at least three fatalities have been confirmed, while emergency crews are scrambling to rescue 81 people feared to be trapped beneath the debris of a partially constructed high-rise, authorities stated.

Myanmar, one of Asia’s most economically challenged nations, has been struggling with the impact of a civil conflict that erupted after the military seized power in 2021. The country’s fragile infrastructure has made responding to major natural disasters particularly difficult.

The situation is further complicated by the presence of various militias controlling different parts of the country, making it hard to collect accurate data. Additionally, communication blackouts imposed by the military in conflict zones hinder information flow.

More details to follow…..