The Chinese government has denied any involvement in the Lashio city situation, explicitly stating that they have not interfered in Myanmar’s affairs. This comes after reports suggested that the military council forces were able to re-enter Lashio city, which was previously captured by the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), due to Chinese intervention and pressure. Despite widespread speculation about China’s role in facilitating the military council’s return to Lashio, the Chinese government has categorically rejected these claims.
In Mon State’s Bilin Township, intense fighting erupted between the military council forces and revolutionary alliance forces near Alule village. During the clash, six military council soldiers were confirmed dead, according to an official from the Naga Phyu Battalion. The battle began when military council troops attempted to advance their operations in the area. The confrontation represents another significant engagement between resistance forces and the military council in the ongoing conflict.
The military council continues its oppressive practices in Karen State, particularly targeting internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Kawkareik Township and Kyondoe Town. Reports indicate that the military council is demanding monetary payments from refugees based on the number of people seeking to cross the Gyaing Bridge. Those who cannot afford the imposed fees are being turned away and denied passage. This practice represents a further violation of the freedom of movement for displaced civilians who are already suffering from the effects of conflict. Local sources confirm that this systematic exploitation of war refugees has become another means through which the military council exercises control over civilian populations fleeing from conflict zones.
