Fierce clashes are ongoing in Kyaukme, northern Shan State, as the Myanmar military attempts to retake the town from the Palaung terrorist group, Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA).
On September 30, several government offices in Kyaukme, including the fire station, police station, forestry office, criminal investigation department, and the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) office, were set on fire. Witnesses claim TNLA torched the buildings before withdrawing, aiming to prevent the military from using them if they regain control.
However, some exile media outlets report the fires may have been caused by military drone strikes, targeting TNLA fighters suspected of sheltering inside the offices.
Local reports say TNLA flags were removed from Kyaukme on September 29, raising speculation that the group may be preparing to pull back. Residents believe if the military secures Kyaukme, it will soon advance toward nearby Hsipaw.
The TNLA, part of the “Operation 1027” alliance, has expanded fighting across towns such as Kyaukme, Hsipaw, and Nwangkhio. Despite Chinese-brokered talks earlier this year, the TNLA rejected military proposals to retreat to its original strongholds, prompting intensified offensives.
The group also destroyed part of the historic 125-year-old Goteik Viaduct railway bridge near Kyaukme on August 24, damaging over 30 feet of the structure. Repairs are currently underway.
