The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and allies say they are attacking Myanmar junta troops retreating from Mansi Township, Kachin State, inflicting heavy casualties.
After seizing the township on January 8, the KIA, All Burma Students Democratic Front and other groups attacked hundreds of troops retreating from Light Infantry Battalions 319 and 601 and Artillery Battalion 352 in Mansi.
KIA spokesman Colonel Naw Bu: “We continue eliminating them on the ground. We cannot give casualty figures yet.”
Sources estimate at least 100 retreating troops have been injured, numerous soldiers have been detained and large amounts of arms and ammunition seized.
The KIA and its allies on December 4 attacked junta forces in Mansi and Bhamo, a former junta power hub where fighting continues.
“Our forces are establishing positions throughout Bhamo and encircling remaining junta bases. We have liberated much of the town, allowing freer movement,” said Col Naw Bu.
Bhamo residents reported that junta forces are limited to Military Operations Command 21 and Infantry Battalion 47, which are apparently being encircled by anti-regime forces.
The KIA and its allies, which include People’s Defense Forces loyal to the civilian National Unity Government, have seized over 300 junta outposts and bases.
The armed group and its allies have occupied around 15 towns and the former Kachin State Special Region 1, a rare-earth mining hub along the Chinese border. The KIA has also seized two northern Shan State towns.
