For the past week, fighting has been escalating between regime troops and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) in Kutkai Township in northern Shan State. Clashes occurred recently at the foot of Loi Samsip Mountain, a local who requested anonymity told SHAN.

”The fighting took place near a crossroads at Nam Per Hkee, where KIA soldiers are active,” said the man, who was unable to give details of casualties at press time.

Kutkai township northern Shan StateKutkai township northern Shan State

If the BA advances further into the region, the KIA, which is stationed in the jungle below the mountain, will attack them, the source explained. The regime has also advanced near Mang Pein, where clashes also occurred recently.

Earlier, violent clashes occurred near a junta toll booth on the Hsenwi-Kutkai road, where BA shelling wounded three Maw Hip villagers, including two children.

According to reports from locals, the fighting is expected to continue after both groups dispatched more troops to the township.