The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) has fully captured Momauk Town in Bhamo Township, Kachin State, following an offensive that culminated on the evening of August 19, according to sources within the KIA.
The operation began on July 24, targeting the 437th Light Infantry Battalion based in Momauk. After nearly a month of intense fighting, the KIA successfully took control of the town.
The KIA had already seized several key positions in Momauk, including a police station and military junta camps, during operations in June. With the capture of the final remaining camp, the KIA now fully controls the town.
KIA spokesperson Major Naw Bu confirmed the victory, stating, “We’ve controlled the police station and other key defensive positions in Momauk for some time. The 437th Light Infantry Battalion was the last remaining outpost, and we captured it on August 19. We are now conducting clearance operations in the area.”
Momauk is strategically located about 7 miles east of Bhamo and serves as a critical defensive point for the city.
The recently captured camp, situated between Momauk and Bhamo, now poses a direct military threat to Bhamo. During the battle, the KIA captured weapons, ammunition, and an armored vehicle, and took several junta soldiers into custody.
The KIA has also taken control of more than ten military camps, including artillery positions, along the route from Momauk to Lweje, near the Chinese border.
Over the past four months, the KIA has confirmed the capture of over 110 military junta and Militia camps across Kachin State.
