Entire Kamaing Kawng Ra ward Flees Amid intensified Armed Tension

Pajau Media Channel

15th March, 2024

The local residents of Kawng Ra Ward, Kamaing Town, which is on the highway of Hpakant Township in Kachin State, were forced to evacuate to a secure location due to escalating military tensions.

“Presently, nearly the entire village is seeking refuge in the woods. All villagers have dispersed to various locations. Some have sought shelter in the forest, while others have fled to neighboring cities,” reported a woman who had taken refuge in the forest.

The SAC forces have established positions at the monastery, primary school, and the intersection near the entrance of Kamaing Town. There have been numerous instances of heavy artillery and drone bombardments originating from the Kamaing SAC’s strategic military base situated on the hill.

Furthermore, on March 14th, as residents began to flee in fear of imminent clashes, the SAC obstructed their departure by blocking all roads leading into and out of the city. The SAC also threatened to burn down the homes of those who had fled.

As per the local residents’ reports, not only the inhabitants of Kawng Ra Ward but also those from Htoi San Ward, Nant Si Inn Ward, and Kamaing Town have been evacuating since March 12th.

The military conflict between the SAC and the KIA in Hpakant Town, which falls under the jurisdiction of the 9th Brigade of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), continues to escalate, resulting in the capture of at least five SAC military posts by the KIA.