Local sources report that the military council is reinforcing its troops and shelling areas around Hpakant city in Kachin State, claiming preparations for holding elections. On the evening of September 16, a military column with 8 vehicles moved from Kamaine to Hpakant city, taking multiple security positions along the way before arriving at Lonechin village in Hpakant township. Current estimates indicate approximately 1,000 troops in the Hpakant area, including existing forces and recent reinforcements.
According to local sources, 6 military vehicles entered the Lonechin mining area initially, with the remaining 2 vehicles likely following later. The military is reportedly attempting to gain complete control of the Semu (Sai Taung) area before elections, as this region is currently under the control of revolutionary forces. This explains the continued reinforcement of troops in the area. The military’s presence has significantly increased as they attempt to establish control over areas currently held by resistance groups.
The military council forces positioned in Hpakant city and Strategic Hill have been conducting daily artillery strikes on surrounding areas. On the morning of September 17, they fired artillery into Sai Ja Bum village near Hpakant city, severely injuring a 50-year-old man. Local residents report that these artillery strikes are being conducted indiscriminately, without any ongoing battles in the area. The military is firing from their positions in what appears to be random attacks on civilian areas.
Since late May, when the military began its operations in the Hpakant region, their attacks and killings have resulted in at least 75 civilian deaths, according to local residents. While the military claims these reinforcements are necessary for conducting elections, evidence shows they are continuing to commit acts of violence against the local civilian population. The increased military presence has brought more suffering to local communities rather than the promised electoral security, with ongoing artillery attacks and military operations causing civilian casualties and displacement in the region.
