By Bala / MPA
The Myanmar military has launched a coordinated, large-scale offensive across Karenni (Kayah) State, utilizing ground troops, heavy artillery, and daily airstrikes to reclaim strategic territory and sever vital trade routes.
Military sources report that since 6 February, junta forces have been pushing to control the main highway linking Hpruso, Hta-Lae, Nan Phe, and Bawlakhe. The move appears designed to paralyze local commerce and movement while exerting pressure on the key town of Hpasawng.
“They are attacking Hpasawng while simultaneously bombing Mawchi from the air,” a military source told MPA. “Key logistics points like the Hpasawng and Pon Chaung bridges have been hit. From ground assaults to drones and Y-12 transport planes being used for bombing runs, they are opening fire on every possible front.”
Late Sunday night, the military deployed jet fighters and two Y-12 transport aircraft to drop bombs on the Mawchi area, specifically targeting Upper Yay Pu and Lokhalo. This follows reports of continuous heavy artillery fire in eastern Demoso and reconnaissance flights over Mese, near the Thai border.
Local residents say the offensive has effectively split Demoso into isolated eastern and western zones, making travel impossible for civilians caught in the crossfire.
The Karenni State Interim Executive Council (IEC) suggests that this escalation is a calculated political move following the junta’s recent attempts to hold elections.
“As we anticipated, the military is increasing its operations post-election,” said Ko Bannya, Secretary (2) of the IEC. “This is a dual-track strategy: using military force to regain territory while trying to project an image of ‘total control’ to the international community in a bid for legitimacy.”
Heavy fighting continues within Hpasawng, with junta troops reportedly attempting to push back into the town center under the cover of artillery barrages. Communication with front-line personnel remains difficult due to poor signal and the intensity of the ongoing clashes.
The IEC has issued an urgent warning to civilians, advising them to strictly follow safety protocols and displacement guidelines as the conflict shows no signs of abating.
Sagaing and Karenni states have remained the most formidable strongholds of resistance since the 2021 coup, with the military frequently resorting to airpower to compensate for significant losses on the ground.
