September 5, 2024
On September 4, around 4:30 PM, the Karenni National Defense Force (KNDF) launched an attack using a 120mm mortar on the convoy of military leader Min Aung Hlaing during his visit to Loikaw, Kayah State. The attack occurred after Min Aung Hlaing had completed two meetings with local officials at the district administration and state hall. Local sources report that while the military leader was unharmed, there were injuries among the junta forces.
During his meetings, Min Aung Hlaing reportedly discussed the need for rapid resettlement of displaced residents in Kayah State and urged efforts to complete the population census. Large numbers of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Kayah remain unable to return to their homes.
Pro-junta Telegram channels confirmed the attack, stating that Min Aung Hlaing’s convoy was targeted at approximately 3:30 PM, and KNDF Deputy Commander-in-Chief Mawii confirmed the attack on the junta leader.
Following the attack on Min Aung Hlaing, at around 5:00 PM, the Myanmar military conducted an airstrike on Bhu Phyu village, located west of Loikaw. Details of the damage caused by the airstrike have yet to be confirmed.
Min Aung Hlaing traveled to Loikaw from Taunggyi, Shan State, by air, and continued his journey by car to southern Shan State’s Si Saing region. Despite ongoing resistance from revolutionary forces in Kayah, including in Moebye, Nann Mei Khone, Demoso, and other key areas, Loikaw itself remains under junta control.
