After months of siege, resistance fighters in Myanmar have captured the northeastern city of Laukkai. This represents a serious blow to the ruling military junta.
The capital of the Kokang region on the border with China has been ceded to the rebels, an army spokesman said. According to the resistance group Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), six generals, more than 2,300 soldiers and more than 1,600 of their relatives were captured.
The military said it was reluctant because of its proximity to neighboring China and out of respect for the civilian population. In the west of the country, however, the army acted much less cautiously. An airstrike on rebel positions reportedly killed at least fifteen people (see video above). Two children were among the victims, eyewitnesses told the German news agency on Monday. Nearly 20 people were injured in the attack on the town of Khampat in the Sagaing region.
Particularly heavy fighting on the border with China
Last week, a misdirected shell landed on the Chinese side in the city of Nansan, about seven miles away, wounding several people, according to media reports. China called on the parties to the conflict to cease fire and avoid incidents.
The so-called Three Brothers Alliance launched its offensive on October 27, calling it “Operation 1027”. Since October 27, there has been particularly heavy fighting in northern Shan State, bordering China, a region known for drug trafficking and gambling and considered lawless. According to its own statements, the alliance has captured hundreds of military bases and numerous cities there. Given the confusing situation, the reports cannot be independently verified.
Resistance fighters want to overthrow the junta
The alliance consists of experienced resistance fighters from three groups: the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and the Arakan Army (AA). All are traditionally close to China, Myanmar’s main trading partner. The aim of the alliance is to overthrow the military junta.
The military seized power in a coup in February 2021. Since then, the new rulers have suppressed the protests with an iron fist. Deposed former head of government Aung San Suu Kyi is in custody.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
