Myanmar’s junta launched an airstrike near Mogoke town in Mandalay Region after its ground troops were attacked by the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA).
Troops from Light Infantry Battalions 148, 104 and 102 and Light Infantry Division 44 advanced into northern Mogoke Township, the source of the world’s finest rubies, on September 15.
“Clashes broke out near Kone San and Nyaung Kone villages. The junta troops shelled where we were stationed, followed by an airstrike,” said Lieutenant Colonel Tar Aik Kyaw of the TNLA.
A Mogok resident said junta troops advanced into the area, which is a TNLA Brigade 2 stronghold.
“When the troops reached near Kone San village, the TNLA opened fire,” said a Mogoke resident.
Heavy fighting was also reported near Nyaung Kone village, according to the TNLA, the armed wing of the Palaung State Liberation Front.
On September 11, four hours of fighting were reported between the junta’s Battalion 666 and TNLA Brigade 2 in the area.
Lt Col Tar Aik Kyaw said the TNLA has engaged in about 40 clashes with the regime since July 23. He gave no TNLA casualties figures but said at least 14 civilians had been killed by the regime.
Residents said hundreds of civilians have fled Kyat Pyin village since the junta airstrike.
“The junta also shelled Kyat Phin village but we don’t know the civilian casualties yet,” said a Mogoke resident.
