Fighting Intensifies Near Waingmaw (LIB-58) Base; Security Tightened on Bala Min Htin Bridge

Pajau Media

February 16, 2026

Fighting has recently intensified on the Waingmaw front, and while the military council is reinforcing its troops, security has also been tightened on the Bala Min Htin Bridge. According to local residents, explosives are reportedly being planted on the bridge during nighttime closures.

“This morning at 6:30 a.m., the bridge still hadn’t opened. Motorcycles were backed up heavily. After waiting about 15 minutes without it opening, I turned back. Some travelers said that bombs are planted when the bridge is closed at night, and in the morning they carry out clearance operations to remove them,” said a local resident.

The clashes are occurring as joint forces of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) launch an offensive against the remaining Light Infantry Battalion (58) base in Waingmaw. Meanwhile, the military council has reportedly increased security on the Bala Min Htin Bridge, which connects to Myitkyina, conducting strict inspections of civilians and cargo trucks and reinforcing guard presence.

Local residents said that as fighting on the Waingmaw side grows more intense, security measures on the bridge have been escalated accordingly.

In addition to inspections on the bridge, authorities are also collecting gate fees. Drivers reported that even after paying one officer, another sometimes demands payment again.

News – Pilan U