Kachin forces have seized two types of explosive weapons they say that Burmese military forces are using against them in the government's ongoing military offensive in Northern Burma.
There are claims that these weapons emit a type of gas upon explosion. These devices are said to be in use in the current war zones in Hpakawn areas in N’Mawk (Momauk) Township in Manmaw (Bhamo) district in southeastern Kachin State against the Kachin Independence Army (KIA).
The name and configuration of these weapons is so far unknown but they has been in use by the government troops since it began its offensive against the KIA near Hpakawn village as of the second week of November, according to local people.
Eyewitnesses say that one type explodes in the air whereas the other detonates when it hits the ground.
The color of the smoke emitted varies from black to dark gray, said an eyewitness from Hpakawn.
According to claims by locals, such smoke has been adversely affecting the health of Kachin soldiers.
