August 8, 2024

Due to continuous clashes along the Loikaw-Demoso Union Highway and its connecting routes, the Karenni National Defense Force (KNDF) has urged civilians to refrain from using these roads.

Since July, there have been persistent encounters between revolutionary forces and junta troops along these routes, particularly affecting the Loikaw-Demoso Highway. The KNDF has reported daily clashes extending to the southern areas of Loikaw, including Mai Lone, Ywa Tan Shay, Nam Paw Won, Htu Du Ngan Sa, Site Kwin (3), Daw San Bawn, and Pan Kan neighborhoods/villages.

The junta forces have established ambush positions along the highway and nearby neighborhoods, indiscriminately targeting and shooting civilians without prior checks or interrogations, as stated in the KNDF announcement.

Given the recent incidents resulting in civilian casualties, the KNDF has issued a plea for residents to avoid entering or exiting the aforementioned neighborhoods and villages, refrain from visiting their homes, and abstain from transporting goods into these areas. Due to the current ground conditions, the KNDF strongly advises against using the Loikaw-Demoso Highway and connecting routes, such as the Hophet-6 Mile-Pan Kan Road.

Photo – KNDF