People from five villages are lacking any shelter due to the intense fighting between the army and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) near Ginsi village in Lonekhin village-tract in Hpakant Township in Kachin State since April 18.

More than 100 households from old Ginsi, Ywathaung, Bawsardi, Tangawbwan and Hawhsaingyan villages are taking shelter at the new Ginsi village controlled by the KIA’s brigade-9, Battalion-6, however, there is no place to take shelter, said a village in-charge.

“Some villagers are hiding in religious buildings and government schools. They are unable to take shelter in Hpakant Township, as they are not accepted there. The situation is very worrying,” he added.

On April 19 fighting took place between the KIA and the army near Gai Da Bum and Tang Gaw Bum Mountain and Ginsi Hall village. The army carried out 14 airstrikes. 

A local from Ginsi village said: “This morning, there is no fighting. Last night, I heard the sounds of gunfire. I also heard the sounds of heavy shelling fired by the army.”

 

On April 18th, the KIA captured one military camp in Nam Jan located in front of Ginsi village and two military camps in Gai Da Bum and Tang Gau Bum located three miles from Ginsi village, according to locals.

The fights between the KIA and the army have intensified in Kachin State.