KIA and allied groups attack Kanpaikti in China-Myanmar border in Kachin State

On November 20, the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and allied forces launched an attack on Kanpaikti, a key border town in Kachin State, and captured it after intense fighting.

The town, the last stronghold of the Border Guard Force, was targeted despite Chinese government pressure on the KIA to avoid conflict near the border. 

The attack began around 10 am on November 20, with heavy weapon fire preceding the ground assault. By 2 pm, the Tatmadaw, Border Guard Force, and police forces had retreated to a nearby border cave, according to locals who fled to China.

"There were hundreds of military forces, using heavy weapons. By evening, it seemed the military had withdrawn. Fires broke out, but the current situation remains unclear. Some fled to China," a resident reported.

As of November 21, sporadic gunfire continued in the area, though artillery fire had ceased. Communication and electricity remain cut off in Kanpaikti, while transportation to Myitkyina has resumed. 

Meanwhile, approximately 100 vehicles transporting bananas to China are stranded on the Kanpaikti -Waingmaw road.

Concerning the situation in Kanpaikti, contacts were made to  KIA in-charge of Information  Colonel Naw Bu and other military personnel but there were no responses till now. KIA and allied forces attacked and captured Chiphwe in Kachin Special Region 1, controlled by U Zahkung Tin Ying, on October 1, Sawlaw on October 2, and Panwa on October 18.

Since the KIA captured Panwa, all Chinese border gates have been closed since October 18, which has also stopped import of commodities from China.

The Tatmadaw is currently carrying out a full-scale offensive on Momauk , and local media reports indicate that the fighting is intense.

The True News Information Team has not yet released any information on the situation in Kanpaikti, and will update this report as soon as it becomes available.