Myanmar military airstrikes hit Hpakant on Thingyan eve as tensions escalate near Sutaunggon Mountain

Mizzima

On 13 April, the eve of the Thingyan water festival, the military conducted multiple airstrikes and drone attacks in the Ma Shi Ka Htaung neighbourhood of Hpakant Township, Kachin State.

Local sources and members of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) reported that two fighter jets dropped five bombs near Sutaunggon Mountain around 1:00 pm, followed by a separate drone strike two hours later.

Later, at approximately 3:00 pm, a drone attack was also conducted. A soldier from the KIA confirmed these incidents to Mizzima.

“There is no direct fighting. Both sides are using drones and heavy weapons to attack from a distance. Civilians are trying to stay away from the conflict,” the KIA soldier said.

Most residents of the Ma Shi Ka Htaung neighbourhood had already evacuated, and no casualties were reported. Celebrations are minimal in Hpakant, and residents have been warning each other on social media to remain alert for possible airstrikes.

“There are only small groups of about 10 children playing. There are no large celebrations, and people are also concerned about drones,” said a local resident.

In addition, around 100 soldiers from a junta base in Hpakant were deployed to Ma Shi Ka Htaung Ward at around 4:00 pm, according to a revolutionary military source.

“The reinforcements arrived in the morning. There is likely to be more fighting. Clashes already occurred yesterday (12 April) evening,” the source said.

Fighting broke out near Sutaunggon Mountain in Ma Shi Ka Htaung Ward on the evening of 12 April, during which the KIA reportedly carried out drone attacks.

The Myanmar military previously conducted three airstrikes near Sutaunggon Mountain on 11 April.