A Junta column advancing from Hsihseng township in southern Shan State to Loikaw in Karenni State along the Mongpai-Loikaw-Loilem Road, has encountered clashes with resistance forces.

“In recent days, clashes have erupted around the entrance road to Loikaw, particularly in the Industrial Zone area. However the situation in Loikaw town remains calm”, a resistance force from the frontline reported.

In their June 15 edition, the Junta-controlled newspapers reported that Junta troops were continuing operations to regain full control of Loikaw and had recaptured the Hsihseng-Loilem road section on May 29.

Colonel Phone Naing, the Adjutant General of the Karenni Army (KA), stated that while there are no major confrontations in Loikaw, small skirmishes continue to occur intermittently.

“Sporadic shootouts continue near Mongpai, between Mongpai and Loikaw, and between the Industrial Zone and Loikaw around hear”, he said.

The Junta has been making constant efforts to restore the administrative machinery piece by piece in the sections of Loikaw, where it has regained control..

The Junta has prioritised the restoration of governance in areas including Minsu, Dawnoeku, Nambawwan, Kyitharyar, Shanpine, Thiri Mingalar, Myonam Pagoda, and the Loikaw People's

Hospital, situated on the eastern side of the Belu creek.

The Junta-controlled newspapers also reported that their administrative authorities had conducted essential inspections to assess the current conditions in those areas.

A resident noted that while the Junta is working to restore governance in some parts of the town, clashes have not yet ceased in certain downtown wards.

“Junta troops are still operating around Dawoukhu, and sporadic clashes are ongoing in the area. The Junta is conducting area clearance operations there”, he said.

This month, the Junta has been actively encouraging Loikaw residents to evacuated due to clashes to return home. Certain departmental staff have also been instructed by the Junta to return to Loikaw and resume office duties.