The Junta closed all points of entry to Bhamo town in Kachin State, after recent losses to  the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), that now controls almost all of the main road linking Bhamo to Myitkyina the state capital, locals said.

The KIA and allied resistance forces have seized control of Lwegel town, situated along the border with China, and are advancing their offensive towards capturing Momauk and Mansi towns. This has prompted  the Junta to fortify Bhamo as a strategic stronghold being readied for a major defensive operation, a Bhamo resident explained.

Bhamo is strategically positioned at the confluence of land and waterways, making it vital for both military and economic purposes.

"The Junta has shut down all entry points to the town, with the exception of Bhamo University Road leading to Nanpa side, which is permitted for exits, but not entries. Motorbike commuters encounter fewer obstacles compared to car travelers”, he said.

While the Junta has not provided a prior warning for residents of Bhamo to evacuate, some have opted to depart the town, loading their motorbikes with as many belongings as they can.

The Junta has closed off all primary roads in Bhamo, prohibiting passage for residents and barring container vehicles transporting goods and fuel from other regions from entering the town.

Due to the escalating tensions, many doctors at Bhamo People's Hospital have taken leave and evacuated to other towns, leaving only a handful of nurses to manage the hospital.

Currently fighting between KIA-led joint forces and the Junta remains ongoing in various towns and villages in Bhamo District, with KIA steadily seizing control of Junta camps and outposts.