Chiang Mai (Mizzima) – Fighting between the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) Battalion No. 7 and the Burmese government Infantry 139 unit took place on Wednesday in Mali-Hkrang Walawng in Putao Township in Kachin State. The number of causalities was not known.
In addition, on Thursday morning a small clash took place between government troops and Kachin troops in the same area. There were also small clashes in Momauk, Putao, Waimaw and Tanyungzup villages located around 20 miles from Tanphaye village, the location of the Myitsone dam project.
The government has increased its troop levels in Myitkyina and Bhamo, according to La Nang, a KIA spokesperson.
The KIA said that it released two Burmese soldiers, including Thiha Naing aka Thet Naing Aung of the Infantry 342 unit on June 16, in addition to three civilians on June 19.
In addition, on June 18 the KIA released eight civilians who were arrested on June 9 during the fighting because they were suspected of being government informers.
