The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) has regained control of two camps near Mongnaung and Mamonkaing villages on the western side of Indawgyi Lake in Mohnyin Township, Kachin State, according to KIA officials.
“These were originally KIA/KIO bases. After joint forces of the junta and the Shanni Nationalities Army (SNA) launched an offensive, we had to withdraw and leave them. Now, we have recaptured them,” said Colonel Naw Bu, the KIA’s information officer.
The bases had fallen to junta and SNA forces in July. But beginning on 16 August, the KIA and allied groups mounted a counteroffensive that pushed them out and restored control of the positions.
Frontline sources claim that a junta drone was shot down and a drone-jamming vehicle seized during the fighting. Naw Bu said the information “appears to be true” based on available video and audio but noted that the KIA has not been able to independently verify it.
Junta and SNA troops are currently regrouping near Longton village, raising the prospect of renewed clashes.
Fighting has also erupted east of the lake, in Hepu and Hepar villages. Residents from those areas, along with villagers from Mongnaung and Mamonkaing, have fled their homes, local sources said.
