KIA announces indefinite closure of strategic Hpakant-Namua-Kamine road as military tensions escalate

Mizzima

The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) has declared an indefinite closure of the vital Hpakant–Namya–Kamine road starting 22 April, citing the need to block junta military reinforcements and militia movements.

“It is a military route with a significant flow of goods. If reinforcements are sent to Hpakant, the Warazup militia and military commission forces are likely to use this road. We have given prior notice that it will be closed on the 22nd,” said a KIA logistics officer.

He added that ongoing tensions between the military junta, the Warazup People’s Militia Force (PMF) and the KIA could erupt into heavy fighting at any time.

A Hpakant resident said the road is a key supply route into the town and warned that prolonged closure could drive up prices.

“There is only one road, so the prices of goods and fuel will rise if it is closed. Closures do happen, and when they do, people suffer. They are usually brief, but at times they last longer,” he said.

The KIA is currently conducting drone and landmine attacks near Hpakant, while military forces continue to advance in the area.

On 19 April, artillery fire from junta military forces stationed on a strategic hill in Hpakant killed a three-year-old boy from Malang village in Lone Khin village tract and a man from Hmaw Lakin village