Myanmar: Additional armed clashes between military and armed groups likely in Kayah State through mid-May /update 9

Event

Additional armed clashes between the Myanmar military (Tatmadaw) and militant groups, including the Karenni Army (KA) and the Karenni National Defense Force (KNDF), will likely occur in Kayah State through at least mid-May. Violence, including artillery and airstrikes by the Tatmadaw, has affected several townships, including Demoso, Hpruso, and Loikaw. Fighting took place in parts of Loikaw city April 14. The skirmishes have resulted in casualties on both sides and displaced hundreds to thousands of people from the affected areas since 2021.

Authorities will almost certainly maintain heightened security measures, including checkpoints and road closures, in the affected areas. Militant groups will also probably continue increased patrols in the region. Violence is likely to affect transport in the area, especially roads connecting townships.

Kayah State is around 100 km (62 miles) east of Naypyidaw.

Context

Multiple People's Defence Force (PDF) militant and ethnic armed groups in Kayah State have openly opposed the 2021 military coup and continued to engage in operations against the Tatmadaw. Further armed confrontations are likely as the decades-long conflict remains entrenched due to multiple factors, including historical ethnic feuds, competition over natural resources, demands for greater autonomy from a Bamar-dominated central government, as well as the ethnic armed groups' opposition to the military coup.

Advice

Consider deferring nonessential travel to the affected areas until tensions subside and renewed fighting becomes less likely. Reach out to trusted local contacts to determine security conditions, as reporting is often delayed. Carry proper identification documents to present at security checks and heed all instructions from security personnel; remain cooperative if stopped for inspections. If operating in the affected region, maintain contact with your diplomatic mission.