Jakarta, CNN Indonesia –
The Kachin Independence Army (KIA), an armed ethnic group opposed to the coup Myanmar reportedly returned to attack military, Saturday (22/5).
Reported Reuters, KIA soldiers attacked a military post in a jade mining town, northwest of Hkamti.
The attacks marked new territories that have been controlled by the KIA since the coup took place on February 1.
KIA spokesman Colonel Naw Bu said he was aware of the attack but could not provide details. Until now there has also been no official statement from the Myanmar junta regarding the attack.
“The fighting is still ongoing. I can still hear gunshots,” said Mizzima, Myanmar local media quoted a resident near the site.
It was explained that the location of the attack was close to a mining business owned by military conglomerate Myanma Economic Holdings Ltd. Although no one has been able to confirm the veracity of the report.
Since the coup, open conflict has resumed between the Myanmar army and the KIA, which have fought for greater autonomy for the Kachin people. For nearly six decades, KIA has voiced support for anti-junta protesters.
Mizzima said the Myanmar army used jets in the attack. The clash took place in a city rich in jade and gold, which is about 50 km from the border with India.
The Myanmar military has carried out numerous bomb attacks on the KIA in recent weeks. Likewise, clashes between ethnic groups in East and West Myanmar are inevitable.
According to the activist group the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, security forces have killed at least 812 people since the coup took place. However, the Myanmar military disputed these figures and said at least two dozen members of the security forces had also died.
(TTF/dea)
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