The Pa-O National Liberation Army (PNLA) has accused the Junta of deploying flame and chemical bombs in attacks on wards and villages in Hsihseng and Hopong townships, located within the Pa-O Self-Administered Zone in southern Shan State.

According to PNLA's statement, the Junta conducted nearly 400 artillery strikes in Hsihseng and Hopong over the span of a week, accompanied by two chemical bomb attacks and frequent use of flame bombs on a daily basis.

Furthermore, on March 10th, intense clashes erupted between the Junta and joint forces led by the PNLA in Hsihseng and Hopong. In the midst of these clashes, Junta troops unleashed at least 108 artillery rounds and bombarded Hsihseng downtown wards using fighter jets.

Junta troops deployed drone-dropped bombs on Pinlyam village in the Meneitaung area of Hopong, resulting in the destruction of homes and the village monastery.

"We kind of think the Junta used chemical bombs. But proving it may be a bit tricky. But I have seen some folks with symptoms of chemical poisoning, nothing too bad though. We are still trying to confirm if those bombs were really chemical weapons”, a PNLA spokesperson told IMNA.

According to the PNLA's statement, the Junta dropped chemical bombs on Hsihseng on March 6th and 8th.

PNLA members affected by the chemical bombs are experiencing the same symptoms, including nosebleeds, skin irritation, dizziness, nausea, rapid mood swings, fatigue, and reduced oxygen levels, PNLA said.

PNLA has confirmed that they are offering medical care to 8 comrades and the locals exhibiting symptoms of chemical poisoning, while local monitoring organizations have reported over 50 civilian casualties resulting from the Junta's shelling and airstrikes in the Pa-O Self-Administered