A civilian resistance group released a statement vowing a full-on counterattack against the military after it laid siege to its fighters and civilians in Karenni (aka Kayah) and Shan states.

During Tatmadaw’s assault on Demawso Township on May 31, a Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF) fighter and villager have been killed near Kyaukse Lake, according to the statement.

Burma Army pummeled resistance fighters and villagers with artillery from its base in Loikaw and sent in jet fighters.

According to KNDF, Burma Army killed 31 people in Karenni (aka Kayan) State between March 19 and May 31.

The KNDF spokesperson explained there are civilian resistance groups in the seven townships in the state fighting against the military regime and in some areas bordering Shan State.

Formerly called People’s Defence Force, all have been amalgamated into KNDF “to cut off roots of military dictatorship”.

The Loikaw chapter is fighting in Nernat Taw ward, clashes are breaking out in Demawso town in the township with the same name and the Nam Mae Khong unit is fighting Tatmadaw troops located in Mobyel and Pekon, southern Shan State.