22 May 2026 — Multiple airstrikes were carried out by the State Security and Peace Commission (SSPC) on Kanpetlet town as heavy fighting intensified between SSPC forces and Chin resistance groups near the town.
Local sources state that clashes between advancing SSPC junta columns and Chin resistance forces have continued since 21 May along the road between Kanpetlet and Saw towns, with some of the heaviest fighting reported approximately two miles outside Kanpetlet town.
Warnings have been issued urging civilians to evacuate the area by 23 May due to the deteriorating security situation and fears of further escalation.
A displaced resident from Kanpetlet said communication with relatives remaining in the area had become increasingly difficult, making it hard to independently verify conditions on the ground.
However, local reports indicate that clashes near the town remain intense.
Two fighter jets from the Taungoo Air Base launched four aerial attacks on locations in Kanpetlet town at approximately 2:10 am.
Later in the morning at around 9:27 am and 9:40 am, two additional fighter jets from the Magway Air Base conducted another four airstrikes on the town.
The local resource stated that an ATR-42 reconnaissance aircraft continued circling near Kanpetlet following the attacks, conducting aerial surveillance operations over the surrounding area.
Amid the escalating conflict, heavy fighting reportedly broke out between Kanpetlet and Saw involving SSPC forces and allied Chin resistance groups, including the Chin Brotherhood and the Chin People’s Union/Chin People’s Army (CPU/CPA).
Local sources said clashes remained intense throughout the day as both sides continued military operations in the area.
Meanwhile, military convoys and allied security forces that reportedly stayed overnight at Kyauktankhar were said to have advanced toward the Pontaung Hill area, raising concerns among local residents over further escalation.
No casualty figures or damage assessments were immediately available at the time of reporting. – Reporting by Ben
