The Military Council is currently engaging in increased military activities in the Hpakant township of Kachin State, resulting in a tense military

situation because the Military Council wants to cut off the KIO's income, according to Colonel Naw Bu, the information officer for the KIO/KIA.

Colonel Naw Bu, the information officer for the KIO/KIA, told the Myitkyina News Journal that the increased military tension in the Hpakant region may be a result of the military council's desire to exert control over the entire area, while also intimidating the local population.

"The military situation in Hpakant is tense because they want to cut off the KIO's income. They want to take control of all of Hpakant, so I consider that it is possible to threaten the people and take action," said Colonel Naw Bu.

According to a Hpakant local resident, Military Council troops are doing more territorial control this year than last year.

"The level of territorial control exerted by the Military Council in Hpakant was not significant last year. However, this year, they have increased their efforts, conducting military operations, arresting people including KIA employees, and conducting widespread searches throughout the area. The frequency and intensity of military activities have risen considerably compared to the previous year," the resident added.

Following a confrontation between the joint forces of the KIA/PDF and the Military Council in Myauk Kone Ward of Longkhin Village on March 18, the Military Council troops reportedly opened fire indiscriminately, resulting in the deaths of six civilians who were struck by bullets.

After military council troops were allegedly targeted by landmines near Sabyit Khu village in Sharaw Hka village-tract on February 27, approximately 200 people, including company workers, were detained and subjected to examination.

On March 2, following the release of the previously abducted individuals,

approximately 30 soldiers were targeted by landmines near Sharaw Hka village. As a result, over 100 local residents were subsequently detained by the Military Council.

On March 11, the Military Council apprehended 10 KIA soldiers and civilians who were holding a meeting at the Kachin traditional culture office located in Hparpyin village. Additionally, on March 15, the Military Council conducted a raid on the residence of a KIA deputy district commander situated in Maw Maung Hlyan Ward, arrested 6 people who were in the house, and confiscated computers and cars.