KIA clashed with Burma army soldiers in Shan State

09 September 2013: Shootings between Burma Army soldiers and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) took place at Loi Lawm and Loi Dang in Muse Township last week.

The Kachin news said the fighting broke out between soldiers from Burma Army Light Infantry Battalion 578 and Mongkoe-based Kachin rebels affiliated with KIA.

About 60 soldiers from Burma Army Infantry Battalion 69 arrived in Pangsai areas last Thursday, according to media reports.

Meanwhile, Burma’s authorities of the Putao District Military Strategic Command (MSC) have been accused of blocking activities to evacuate about 100 Kachin refugees trapped in the jungles in Kachin State.

The victims including women and children have been in hiding since mid last week following a clash between Burma army soldiers and KIA near Nhka Ga village in Machyangbaw Township.

Rev. Dr. Hkalam Samsun, General Secretary of Myitkyina-based Kachin Baptist Convention (KBC), said they are very concerned about the displaced villagers that have received no assistance, according to the Kachin news.#