Over 400 residents are in the process of evacuation following a raid by the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), during which they captured the Kathaingtaung Military Base in Hpakant Township, situated in Kachin State. Additionally, a military outpost in the nearby Nammaw village was also seized by KIA.
In the early hours of August 7th, KIA troops along with the People's Defense Force (PDF) collaboratively seized control of two strategic frontline posts. These posts were previously held by battalions under the command of the Military Council's 33rd Division, based in Hpakant. Following the successful operation, the region's military dynamics became increasingly fraught, prompting local residents to proactively evacuate to ensure their safety.
In the early hours of August 7th, a collaborative effort between KIA and the People's Defense Force (PDF) resulted in the capture of two strategic frontline posts. These posts were previously held by battalions from the 33rd Division of the Military Council, stationed in the Hpakant area. Following this assault, the security situation in the region became highly precarious, prompting local communities to take proactive measures and evacuate to ensure their safety.
A majority of the Nammaw villagers have sought refuge at the Hmawshan village monastery, located within the Saitaung village tract, according to locals.
"Approximately 400 individuals seeking refuge from the intense military situation are currently located at Mhawshan Monastery. Additionally, around 20 more individuals have found shelter at Sein Mya Thu Kha Monastery”, a Hmawshan villager told KNG.
Due to substantial casualties suffered by the Military Council in battles where KIA and PDF captured bases, along with the potential for escalated retaliation, residents of the nearby villagers had no option but to evacuate in advance, a local elder from Hpakant explained.
Simultaneous with operations in Kathaingtaung and Nammaw, KIA also took control of a military camp belonging to the Shanni Nationalities Army (SNA) in Sezin village. KIA spokesperson Colonel Naw Bu cautioned the local populace to remain watchful, citing the potential for air raids by the Military Council in response to the prevailing circumstances.
"Enemies who lose their military bases could become angry and seek revenge, so people should be cautious as there might be more airstrikes”, he said.
In July, a Military Council outpost close to the Pantin Bridge in Hpakant was similarly targeted, resulting in significant casualties among Junta soldiers; yet, unlike the current situation, the attack on the Pantin outpost did not lead to locals fleeing.
In November 2022, when conflict erupted near Sezin village, thousands of civilians were forced to flee their homes due to the soldiers' actions of setting local houses on fire.
Photo caption - Nammaw war-displaced villagers taking refuge in Hmawshan Monastery
