The joint forces of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), Arakan Army (AA), and Kachin People’s Defense Force (KPDF) attacked and seized the junta’s Hsikhamgyi Military Base in Jelkam village (known as Hsikhamgyi) in Mansi Township, Kachin State, at 11 o’clock in the morning of February 19, according to local residents.
The KIO’s News and Information Department reported that the resistance joint forces started an offensive attack on Hsikhamgyi military base in the area of KIA Brigade 3 since February 17, they completely seized the military base this morning.
“The junta planes are still coming this morning, but we have seized the military base. We are still in the process of clearing the area, so we don’t know exactly yet,” a person close to the front line told MPA.
During the three days of the fighting, 5 civilians were killed by the junta airstrikes, and MPA is still investigating regarding the casualties from both sides.
Hsikhamgyi village is located on Mandalay – Myitkyina Road and is also an important village in terms of military and transportation.
“I heard the entire village was destroyed, so I can’t dare to imagine what I will see when I go back home. Some people are still trapped in the village,” said an IDP resident who fled to Bhamo town.
“People inside Bhamo town are worried. If the fighting comes to the town, we will also have to flee,” said a woman from Bhamo town.
During January and February of this year, the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and joint force seized _ Gong Nguyen military base _ under the Light Infantry Battalion 424 in Mansi Township, _ Kaihteik military base _ under the Infantry Battalion 602, and _ Blandinsa military base _ under the Infantry Battalion 250, including Mabein township in northern Shan State.