July 21, 2024
Despite the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) declaring a ceasefire from July 19 to July 31 at the request of China, intense fighting continues in Lashio due to ongoing attacks by the junta. Reports indicate that the junta began heavy shelling with artillery and small arms fire at 4 a.m. on July 21, followed by airstrikes around 6:25 a.m.
The clashes have been particularly fierce around the 507th Battalion in Lashio’s Ward 5, with continuous sounds of gunfire and explosions heard until after 8 a.m. on July 20, an artillery shell hit near the main market in Lashio, killing a child who suffered head and leg injuries.
Currently, approximately 30,000 residents remain trapped in the city, unable to evacuate due to the ongoing conflict.
The military’s position in northern Shan State has been severely weakened, leading to the recent replacement of Brigadier General Soe Tint, commander of the Northern Command, with Colonel Soe Hlaing during the temporary ceasefire.
The MNDAA and allied forces have been attacking junta troops in Lashio Township since July 3, as part of their broader campaign against the military regime.
The humanitarian situation in Lashio remains dire, with thousands of civilians caught in the crossfire and critical supplies running low. Efforts to negotiate a longer-lasting ceasefire and provide aid to the affected populations are ongoing but face significant challenges amid the relentless violence.
