The fighting broke out near Kyaukme township, northern Shan State, resulting in the deaths of two locals due to heavy weapons explosions, according to residents. 

The clashes started near Kyaukme township yesterday morning, with locals reporting loud explosions from heavy weapons. Following the explosions, the downtown area of Kyaukme township was deserted.

“We heard the sound of shooting yesterday morning. After hearing the weapons, there were few people in the downtown area, and shops were closed,” said one local from Kyaukme.

Additionally, a heavy weapon artillery shell struck in front of the tax-free market in Kyaukme township around 8 am on June 25. The blast killed a man and a woman, and a 14-year-old girl was wounded, according to social media posts from local social organizations.

Vehicles heading to Lashio township from Pyin Oo Lwin were trapped due to the fighting. 

“My friend left for Lashio from Pyin Oo Lwin around 5 am on June 25. When they arrived at Nawnghkio township, they heard the shootings and did not dare to proceed. Returning was also very difficult. There were also dangerous areas between Kyaukme and Goattwin and between Kyaukme Sakhantha and Goattwin,” said a local from Lashio.

The bridge located in Hwatlan village between Lashio and Hsibaw townships was destroyed, and the Kyinthi bridge between Kyaukme and Hsibaw townships had already been closed.

A resident from Lashio town mentioned that the current Lashio-Maingyel-Namtlan-Yatsauk road is inconvenient during the rainy season. Passengers traveling to Yangon must use the Lashio-Maingyel-Kyeethe road section in southern Shan State.