NarinjaraNews, 29 March, 2023

Some media reported that nearly 30 juntasoldiers were killed in the battle in Myawaddy of Karen State on 25 Marchaccording to the ground information although the military council released astatement that three police members, one customs staff and one civilian werekilled in the battle.

On 25 March, a combined force of the Karen National Union/Karen NationalLiberation Army (KNU/KNLA) raided Thingunnyinaung police station and the BorderTrade Zone in Myawaddy where military council soldiers were stationed.

The military-owned newspaper wrote on 27 March quoting Major General Zaw MinTun, leader of the military council’s information that “They carried outattacks about 200 meters to the west of Myawaddy Trade Zone. X-ray machines wereburned down. Security members from the Trade Zone fought back. Three policemembers, one customs staff and one civilian were killed in the attack. Somepolice members are missing.”

According to unconfirmed sources, there were more than 20 casualties fromthe military council. The combined force seized weapons and arrested some juntasoldiers.

The KNU/KNLA also suffered casualties. On 26 March, fighting continued inKyondoe and Kawkareik Townships. Vehicles are blocked along Asia Highway,according to locals.

A local told the Narinjara: “Roads were closed till the morning of 27 March.We cannot travel to Kawkareik via Myawaddy. The vehicles were shot. Untilyesterday, there were airstrikes and heavy shelling. This morning, the soundsof gunfire have not been heard yet.”

White Tiger column led by Captain Kyaw Thet has warned the public to avoidusing roads between Myawaddy and Kyondoe Townships as the military situation iscomplicated since 25 March. The military council issued martial law from 10 pmto 4 am.

The combined force of the KNU and the KNLA has not released any informationabout the battle.