The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) attacked two Burma Army (BA) camps in northern Shan State as fighting escalated between ethnic armed organisations (EAOs) and the military in Kutkai Township.

A local told NMG that the KIA attacked their Myoma camp in Kutkai town and the other near a highway toll station last Saturday. BA then retaliated with artillery, causing shells to land in surrounding villages. The man said he heard gunfire near the toll gate, which was close to his location.

At the time of going to press, it is not known whether the BA shelling caused civilian casualties.

NMG was unable to reach Col Naw Bu, spokesperson for the political wing of the KIA, the Kachin Independence Organisation, for confirmation of the fighting.

According to local reports, there have been at least six clashes between BA and EAOs this month.