Approximately 40 military junta soldiers were killed during recent clashes near Kyondoe town in Kawkareik Township, Karen State, according to the Dawna Dragon resistance group.
The fighting took place near Nwarchan Hill and Laitai Village on June 14, when a military convoy known as the Aung Zeya Column, comprising around 150 troops from Light Infantry Divisions 44 and 55, advanced from Kyondoe town toward previously lost positions in the area.
Saw Akyel, spokesperson for the Dawna Dragon force, said resistance groups launched a preemptive strike as the junta troops advanced, resulting in heavy casualties.
“The Aung Zeya Column, made up of troops from Divisions 44 and 55, pushed toward Nwarchan Hill and Laitai Village on June 14, attempting to retake territory. Although their force was large, we and allied units launched a coordinated attack by land and air. Around 40 junta troops were killed on the ground, and about seven wounded soldiers were pulled back by their side,” he said.
After the battle, on June 15, junta soldiers reportedly returned with vehicles to collect the bodies of their dead.
During the fighting, the military junta used heavy artillery and carried out airstrikes with Y-12 aircraft and fighter jets. Explosions near nearby villages reportedly resulted in civilian casualties as well.
The junta has since reinforced troop numbers around the Kyondoe area, while resistance forces continue to blockade and attack military movements.
“Right now, their forces are still stationed in villages near Kyondoe. We’ve blocked all possible entry routes and are keeping up pressure through attacks. As a result, they’re unable to advance,” added Saw Akyel.
Resistance sources also report that the junta is shelling daily from Kyondoe to weaken defense lines and regain control over the Kawkareik–Kyondoe highway—an area seized by resistance forces since mid-April.
Military columns in the area are currently being engaged by joint forces of the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA), the Dawna Airborne Force, Lion Battalion, the Mon Liberation Army (MLA), and allied resistance units.
