KIA offensive sparks heavy fighting in Bhamo, forcing civilian evacuations

The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and allied forces have intensified their offensive against Myanmar’s military in the southern Kachin State city of Bhamo, engaging in fierce clashes since the beginning of the week.

Bhamo, a key junta stronghold situated near the Chinese border, has seen heavy fighting in recent weeks. KIA-led forces have been conducting an offensive for nearly a month to capture the city