Putao-Machangbaw area sees rising military tensions; clashes between the two sides possible

Pajoung Media

January 23, 2026

In Kachin State, military tensions are escalating in the Putao and Machangbaw areas as the military junta has been reinforcing its forces with heavy weaponry. As a result, clashes between the military junta’s troops and the KIA-led joint resistance forces could break out at any time. The joint resistance forces have warned civilians to remain cautious when traveling.

According to information received, since after January 15, the military junta has been continuously transporting troops, weapons, and supplies by aircraft to Light Infantry Battalion (LIB) 46 in Putao, and from there transporting them by military vehicles toward the Machangbaw area.

“They are delivering supplies by plane to LIB 46 in Putao, and from that base, they are sending them by vehicles toward the Machangbaw area,” a local resident said.

It is also reported that military junta troops are carrying out frequent ground military movements toward Htang Ga Village in the Machangbaw area, as well as increased military operations downstream near N hka Ga.

In addition to continuous ground military operations across Kachin State, the military has also been carrying out repeated aerial bombardments.

News: Hpring