The military warned local leaders in Hpakant Township it will launch artillery attacks if the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) visits their villages located along the Karmai to Hpakant road.

According to a man close to the village administration committee, the military issued the threat following July 14-15 clashes with the KIA in Hkum Tsai Zup, Gawlu Yang, Tantar Nyi Naung and Gat Noi villages.

During the fighting, Burma Army (BA) based in Nan Yar shelled four villages. At least six residents from Seng Hpra were wounded when a shell hit a home in the village on July 15.

One of the victims was an eight-year-old girl. The six injured civilians are Hpau Yu Seng, 60, Lu Htoi Tsin, 37, Hpau La Dut La, 49, Maji La, 51, Hpau Yu Hkawn, 40, and Hpau La Pri Lum, 8.

Over 200 civilians affected by fighting sought refuge at Church in Senghpra. Some villagers returned to their homes on the morning of July 18, only to flee when they learned the military was sending soldiers to the area.

“Almost everyone returned to our village yesterday, however, by the evening we had to run,” a woman who didn't want her name published told KNG.

The following day, the military launched an artillery attack on Hkum Tsai Zup at 2 pm.

Villagers said BA soldiers are staying in some villages in Hpakant Township.