KIA Captures Waingmaw, Laiza, Bhamo Road
By Network Media Group
Thursday, May 23, 2024
The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) has gained control of the entire stretch of road from Waingmaw through Laiza to Bhamo, a segment of the Myitkyina – Bhamo national highway.
“Our troops seized the Shwe Nyaung Pin Light Infantry Battalion (LIB) 321 camp around 8 pm yesterday, and we also captured Lung Zek Kawng and Kazu Yang camps from the Burma army a few days ago. Therefore, we have taken control of all military camps along the Waingmaw – Laiza – Bhamo road,” explained Col Naw Bu, spokesperson of the Kachin Independence Organisation, KIA’s political wing, on Wednesday, May 22.
LIB-321’s location at the entrance of Waingmaw town is strategically important for the Burma army in the township that shares the same name. It also secures the road from Myitkyina to Bhamo.
“Burma army soldiers used to inspect all travellers and vehicles at the Shwe Nyaung Pin checkpoint,” he said, noting that it’s the last camp before the town.
During the fighting, the regime launched a multiple launch rocket system at KIA troops and conducted artillery and airstrikes against them. After the camp was seized, the Military Council conducted midnight airstrikes on Laiza, which serves as the KIO’s de facto headquarters.
KIA and allied forces continue to attack the junta’s camps in the rest of Waingmaw, Bhamo, Momauk, and Mansi townships.
