Myanmar ethnic minority fighters seized the town of Naungcho in Northern Shan state along a key trade highway to China, following clashes with the military. The alliance of the Arakan Army (AA), the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), and the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) renewed an offensive against the military last month, shredding a Beijing-brokered truce. General Tar Bhone Kyaw of the TNLA confirmed that Naungcho is now under their control. The town is located near Pyin Oo Lwin and Taunggyi, important locations in Shan state.
TNLA fighters were also reportedly inside the town of Lashio, where clashes with the military have led to civilian casualties. The military has carried out air strikes and residents have been fleeing in convoys, seeking to escape the violence. Ethnic armed groups in Myanmar have a long history of conflict with the military, with some now supporting the newer “People’s Defence Forces” (PDFs) that are fighting against the junta. Top junta general Soe Win recently traveled to China for security cooperation talks, highlighting China’s complex relationship with Myanmar’s armed groups holding territory near its border.
