The military situation in Kachin State, specifically between Bhamo and Lajaryang, is currently marked by high tension. Phone communication lines have also been disrupted and a number of locals find themselves trapped, according to Bhamo residents.
Since July 13th, military tensions have rapidly escalated in Dung Hkung village, located near Lajaryang. As a result, a significant number of residents have been forced to flee to Bhamo for their safety. However there are still some individuals who remain trapped within the village.
In a similar vein starting from July 7th, the Military Council deployed its troops to infiltrate the Loi Mawk Yang area. Consequently the local population was compelled to flee to Manhseng village in search of refuge. Due to the escalating situation, these displaced individuals now find themselves trapped within the confines of Manhseng village.
"The villagers of Loi Mawk Yang sought temporary refuge in Manhseng village, hoping to return home once the situation eased. However the circumstances have worsened, and they are facing significant difficulties. Although they want to travel to Bhamo, it is presently not feasible, leaving them stuck in their current predicament”, an aid worker who is helping the displaced individuals told KNG.
On July 7th, the entry of Junta troops into Loi Mawk Yang village resulted in a landmine attack against them. Subsequently, the soldiers apprehended the villagers, subjecting them to interrogation, physical assault, and confiscation of their phones.
As a result of escalating hostilities between the Military Council and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) in the vicinity, residents were compelled to seek refuge in Manhseng village.
The villagers from Loi Mawk Yang, who sought temporary shelter in Manhseng, find themselves unable to leave the area and are now confronted with the looming threat of food shortages.
A total of 132 people from 42 households from Loi Mawk Yang are presently stranded in Manhseng, seeking refuge in village monastery and school. These individuals are in urgent need of shelter, food, and medical assistance.
On July 13th, about 50 individuals from 15 households in Dung Hkung village sought shelter within the premises of Aungthar KBC Christian Church, located 2 miles away from Bhamo.
Presently, the Military Council troops have established their base in Bhamo and are mobilizing a substantial number of military forces towards the Dawthponeyan-Namsangyang area to carry out operations.
Tension has escalated since the regime troops marching from Bhamo, encountered resistance from the 18th and 19th battalions of KIA's 5th Brigade near Dinggar and Khalar villages, located in close proximity to Dawthponeyan.
According to residents, following the clashes where the Military Council troops suffered casualties, they are actively reinforcing their military presence in various areas including Myitkyina, Talawgyi, and Bhamo.
