Myanmar’s regime is attacking Karenni (Kayah) State’s capital, Loikaw, which has mostly been controlled by Karenni anti-regime forces since November last year.
No fighting had been reported in Loikaw Township this year since the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF) and its allies seized around 80 percent of the city. Most residents have abandoned Loikaw.
Regime troops from Hsihseng and Pinlaung townships in southern Shan State have reached Kayan Tha Yar village, about 10km north of the capital on the Loikaw-Hsihseng road, according to anti-regime groups.
A member of Mobye People’s Defense Force told The Irrawaddy: “Two groups of troops from southern Shan State have converged at Kayan Tha Yar and are attempting to advance on Loikaw.”
The junta forces are better armed and the anti-regime groups say they are in retreat.
Ko Saw Ta Eh Soe, the KNDF’s spokesman, told The Irrawaddy. “Loikaw is tense. Troops are advancing on Loikaw and there were shootouts at an Industrial zone [near Kayan Tha Yar]. There is fighting almost every day in the city.”
Clashes have been reported near Loikaw’s entrance.
Junta troops still hold the Loikaw Military Command, Loikaw prison and university and some residential areas.
The Karenni State Interim Executive Council said the regime has urged residents and administrative staff to return to Loikaw as it plans to restore its administration.
Four Karenni State towns are under anti-regime control.
