A total of 40 junta soldiers were killed and ammunition seized in synchronized attacks on Myoma police station and other outposts in Nat Than Kwin in Nyaunglebin District in the Karen National Union (KNU) Brigade-3-controlled territory by the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and the combined force, according to the KNU’s statement released on 8 June.
On the morning of 6 June, the combined KNLA forces carried out synchronized attacks on five places— two outposts on the Nat Than Kwin Bridge, an outpost at the junction in Yaydwinkhone village, Nat Than Kwin Myoma police station and Bonethataw outpost.
The attacks resulted in 12 casualties from the military council while five members of the KNLA combined force were killed and 13 others wounded. The combined force seized arms, mines, ammunition and some military equipment and destroyed the Kyaukkyi-Nat Than Kwin bridge, Ohnnaebin-Naywebin bridge and Thazi-Tarsone bridge with mines, according to the KNU’s statement.
Regarding the current situation, a local said: “The road is totally closed. The people have to cross the river by vessel to go to another bank due to the collapse of Nat Than Kwin bridge. The military has tightened security following the KNU’s withdrawal in Nat Than Kwin. Among the displaced persons, the wealthy persons move to the cities. Most of the locals are taking shelter in the safe villages.”
Photo – KNU
According to the KNU’s statement, the military council bombed Nat Than Kwin nine times following the battle. Locals from villages in Kyaukkyi and Mone Townships have fled for safety as the military council is constantly firing heavy shells into the village on the east bank of Sittang River.
As of 7 June, junta soldiers have been stationed in Nat Than Kwin Myoma police station and the outposts on the bridge. Currently, the junta is carrying out the reinforcement of troops and the forced eviction of locals in some wards in Nat Than Kwin, according to the KNU and locals.
Sent by KIC.