The Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF) announced that yesterday on January 24 there was intense fighting throughout the day in Demawso Township, Karenni (Kayah) State and the Military Council had used air support during the clashes.

KNDF reported that starting from 6:30 am yesterday, there was intense fighting the whole day at Demawso’s San Pya (6) mile and (5) field groves.

Junta soldiers advancing to Ho Phate and (5) grove from San Pya (6) mile were countered by troops from the alliance of Karenni Army, KNDF and PDF. Junta troops suffered losses and at 4:45 pm, an attack helicopter was used three times as reinforcement.

KNDF announced that in these skirmishes the junta Military Council suffered many casualties, however, the exact number could not be confirmed, and during the helicopter attack, a soldier from the alliance suffered a minor injury in the leg.

The announcement also mentioned that military informants spread false information on social media that the People’s Defense Forces were killing civilians.

On the ground, the junta forces make civilians wear military uniforms and uses them as guides or human shields. Its troops also are burning homes and stealing from the people or let their followers under their protection steal people’s property, the announcement from the KNDF added.