Despite the military council’s announcement of a 20-day ceasefire for earthquake relief efforts, fighting has erupted in Waingmaw Township, Kachin State, with heavy artillery being fired this morning, according to Kachin Independence Army (KIA) sources. The military council had declared a temporary ceasefire period from April 2 to April 22, claiming it was intended to facilitate relief and rehabilitation efforts for earthquake-affected civilians. However, this declaration was quickly violated by their own forces.
This morning, Infantry Battalion 58 based in Waingmaw Township has been continuously firing heavy artillery and conducting military operations, leading to clashes with KIA forces. Additionally, between 5:57 AM and 6:30 AM today, a Y-12 aircraft from the Meiktila Shantu Air Base conducted an airstrike on Indaw Town in Sagaing Region, dropping 31 bombs, as confirmed by the NAS (National Air Shield) air reconnaissance team. These actions directly contradict the military council’s own ceasefire announcement and demonstrate their continued aggressive operations despite claims of humanitarian concerns.
The Kachin Independence Organization (KIO) had responded to the military council’s ceasefire announcement by declaring their own 20-day cessation of hostilities, while warning the military to adhere to their stated commitments. However, the military council’s forces have continued their offensive operations, causing fear and security concerns among local civilians. Local residents have pointed out that the military council’s ceasefire declaration appears to be merely a deceptive measure, as evidenced by their immediate violation of their own stated terms. The ongoing military activities have created significant anxiety among the local population, who continue to face security risks despite the supposed ceasefire period.
