Intense fighting has broken out between the military council forces and combined forces of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and Kachin People’s Defense Force (KPDF) near Twin Bridge in Hpakant Township, Kachin State. On the morning of May 18, military council forces consisting of approximately 600 soldiers and militia members advanced along the Kamaine-Nan Ya-Hpakant road toward Hpakant township. The combined forces of KIA and KPDF intercepted and attacked them near Twin Bridge.
During the battle, the military council forces suffered heavy casualties, and weapons and ammunition were seized. The military council troops had been advancing slowly each day, reaching Twin Bridge within a month. According to KIA military sources, numerous military council troops were killed during battles along the route. The military council is launching a major offensive using both air and ground forces to regain control of Hpakant city and the Hpakant-Nan Ya-Kamaine road section, as well as the Indawgyi-Waingmaw-Hpakant route.
The military operation includes the deployment of two tanks and drones. Currently, KIA and KPDF forces control most of Hpakant city and surrounding areas, while the military council is attempting to regain territorial control. The military council’s offensive involves significant forces as they attempt to retake control of the Kamaine-Nan Ya road section currently held by KIA and KPDF forces. The fighting continues intensely in this region as resistance forces maintain their defensive positions against the military council’s advances.
