Escalating clashes between junta troops and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and allies in the jade-rich town of Hpakant, Kachin State, have forced thousands of residents to flee their homes, according to the KIA and locals.
The KIA and People’s Defense Force (PDF) of the civilian National Unity Government, launched attacks in Singtawn village, Hpakant Township, on Sept. 7.
“The situation in Singtawn is worsening after around 50 regime troops retreated to the Lucky Min hotel as KIA and allied forces took up positions around the village,” said KIA spokesman Colonel Naw Bu on Monday.
In response, junta bases in Hpakant are shelling houses and buildings in Singtawn while military jets are bombing the village almost daily.
Singtawn, located just 5 kilometers south of Hpakant town, is a large village with a population of over 100,000 residents. It is also a major jade trading hub.
“Singtawn bustles with the jade merchants, mine workers, and miners who live there. Its strategic location also plays a crucial role: Regime troops from bases south of here must pass through this village to reach Hpakant town,” explained a resident of Hpakant.
Junta strikes in response to the KIA’s attacks included a bombing raid on ward 4 of the village conducted by two fighter jets at around 12 pm on Sunday.
Regime forces have destroyed over 200 houses in Singtawn over the three weeks since fighting broke out, according to a KIA statement.
Thousands of residents from Singtawn and Hpakant have fled to nearby villages and towns.
“Most of the people in Hpakant have left the town. KIA forces have blocked all routes in Hpakant township, which could trigger intensified fighting in the coming days,” said Colonel Naw Bu.
The KIA, PDF, and allies are also coordinating attacks on junta forces in border areas between Kachin State and Sagaing Region.
Junta naval vessels sent up the Irrawaddy River to reinforce and supply Kachin bases have suffered heavy losses in attacks by the KIA and allies since early this month.
As of Sunday, at least five naval vessels heading from Mandalay to Bhamo with cargoes of weapons, equipment, and reinforcements have been destroyed, Naw Bu said. He added that only one naval vessel, along with two small security boats, had made it to Bhamo, arriving on September 18.
