KIA warns against collaborating with Myanmar’s junta in Shwegu

Mizzima

The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) Battalion 12, under Brigade 11, has issued a warning directing local residents and business owners in Shwegu District, Kachin State, to completely cease all association with the military junta.

The directive, signed and issued by the commander of KIA Battalion 12 on 23 June, strictly prohibits residents and operators of gold and mineral mining businesses within Shwegu District from collaborating with the military regime.

A local resident noted that complying with the KIA’s directive on the ground presents significant difficulties for business operators.

“Everyone knows it is practically impossible. Operating without the military council’s permission is highly dangerous. Even those mining in territory under their control must secure permission first,” the local resident said.

Furthermore, the statement strictly forbids providing information, gathering intelligence, or acting as informants for the military junta.

Those who previously maintained ties with the junta are urged to completely sever all relations starting from the issuance of this warning.

KIA Battalion 12 sternly warned that decisive action will be taken against anyone failing to comply with these prohibitions.

Although clashes between junta forces and KIA-led allied troops persisted near Shwegu throughout June, a local resident reported hearing no airstrikes today (24 June).

Another resident said, “Some have evacuated, but the majority remain despite the anxiety. We heard airstrikes almost daily, but none so far today.”

In late May 2024, the KIA launched attacks on key strategic junta bases and police stations in Shwegu Township. Following the outbreak of ground clashes in early June, KIA Brigade 11, Battalion 12 issued an order on 8 June instructing Shwegu residents to evacuate the town, while closing major transport routes including the town’s main entry road and the Nga Oh-Shwegu highway.