KNLA-led resistance forces attack security checkpoint near suspension bridge in Kayin State’s Kawkareik

By DMG 16 Dec 2022

DMG Newsroom
16 December 2022, Kawkareik, Kayin State

Fierce fighting broke out between the military and a coalition led by Brigade 3 of the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) after the anti-regime forces launched an attack on a security checkpoint at Gyaing Suspension Bridge near Hlaingkwe Village, part of Kayin State’s Kawkareik Township, on Friday morning, according to local residents.

“A security checkpoint near Gyaing Suspension Bridge was attacked by a coalition led by the KNLA this morning,” said a resident of Kawkareik town. “The fighting between the military and anti-regime forces is ongoing.”

The military’s Thingan Nyinaung-based Light Infantry Battalion (LIB) No. 355 used heavy weapons during the hostilities, according to residents of Hlaingkwe Village.

“The military’s LIB No. 355 fired artillery shells and attacked with some [helicopter] gunships during the fighting,” the Hlaingkwe Villager added.

Residents of Hlaingkwe Village have reportedly fled to nearby forests and safer locations due to the clash.

Dozens of vehicles were trapped on the Kawkareik-Myawaddy road due to the fighting, according to local people.

Some junta soldiers were injured after three transformers were destroyed by an attack on the electricity office in Thingan Nyinaung, Myawaddy Township, at around 1:30 a.m. on December 16, according to locals.

A KNLA-led coalition also attacked a police station, a General Administration Department office and an immigration office last month.