Six civilians were killed and ten were wounded as artillery shells detonated in Kwatthit ward of Khatshu village, located in Waingmaw Township of Kachin State.

Two children, two women, and a man died on the spot due to the shelling attack, which occurred around noon on May 20, with one of the injured individuals passing away upon arrival at the hospital. "In Kwatthit ward of Khatshu village, two shells landed, killing three individuals in one location and two in another simultaneously. Residents report that artillery shrapnel and debris are still scattered. Tragically, one of the patients at Waingmaw Hospital passed away later”, a local reported.

Locals alleged that the explosive shells responsible for the civilian casualties were launched from the Junta's artillery batteries stationed within the compound of the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) office in Kyatpaukchan ward. However KNG is unable to independently verify this claim at present.

Amid escalating clashes in the vicinity of Waingmaw, many residents are opting for temporary relocation to Myitkyina.

"Both the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and the Junta are operating near the town, leading residents to temporarily relocate to Myitkyina. It is more of a temporary measure than a permanent departure. The town appears quite empty as a result”, a Waingmaw resident said.

Joint forces led by KIA, initiated an offensive in Waingmaw on May 18, and are currently targeting Junta and militia bases and outposts that remain uncaptured.

The deceased were identified as U Kyaw Oo (56), Daw Pu Lay (45), Maung Sai Lin Khant (5), Ma Thazin Thinn (22), Maung Zwe Man Aung (9), and Ma Kay Thwe (18).

Six of the wounded were transferred to Myitkyina Hospital, while five others were taken to Waingmaw Hospital.

As the clashes intensified in the vicinity of Waingmaw from May 18 to 20, the toll of civilian casualties and the influx of refugees steadily increased.