The Military Council has declared martial law in 4 townships of Karenni (Kayah) state namely Demoso, Hpruso, Bawlakhe and Shadaw on February 2nd.

The Commander of the Regional Military Command (Loikaw) has been entrusted with administrative and judicial powers under martial law in the 4 townships of Karenni State, in accordance with the Article 419 of the Constitution, the Military Council announced.

Since early 2023, the Junta has escalated both airstrikes and ground offensives in Karenni State. The four townships declared as under martial law by the Military Council are currently the combat zones of heavy fighting between Junta troops and Karenni local defense joint forces.

The announcement also stated that the regional military commander himself or entrusted subordinate military officials, have the right to apply martial law, depending on the circumstances that may change from time to time.

The Military Council declared martial law in 4 townships in Karenni State, 11 townships in Sagaing Division, 8 townships in Chin State, 5 townships in Bago Division, and 5 townships in Magway Division.

The Military Council has also announced that those who commit, treason, rebellion, defamation of the regime, disrupting or harming the actions of law enforcement organizations or the Military in the areas covered by the declaration of martial law will be tried by a military court.