One civilian killed daily in northern Myanmar as junta forces claim 30 lives in one month

At least 30 civilians have been killed in less than a month during military operations in northern Myanmar’s Kachin State, according to local reports.

The junta forces carried out raids and artillery strikes in the jade-rich Hpakant township between May 27 and June 16, Myanmar Now reported, citing sources.

The violence followed the deployment of approximately 600 troops from Kamaing town in April, as the military sought to reinforce positions after the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) reportedly seized hilltop camps and blockaded junta forces.

Upon arrival, the troops launched assaults on Hpakant and nearby villages, torched jade mining areas, and shelled the eastern parts of the region. Several civilians were injured, and residents were detained during the crackdown.

The area has remained a flashpoint amid escalating conflict between the military junta and ethnic armed groups since the 2021 coup.

Earlier, fighting persisted in Hmaw Si Zar village, located in Hpakant Township, as junta forces continued their offensive against areas controlled by the Kachin Independence Army (KIA).

Meanwhile, residents reported finding another civilian body in the nearby village of Yu Mar.

The military launched an attack from Kamaing towards Hpakant—a town known for its jade mines—in early May.

By the end of that month, junta forces had pushed into mining zones, leading to frequent clashes, incidents of arson, and rising civilian casualties.

In villages such as Hmaw Si Zar and Taung Yar Kone, where military activity remains intense, at least 13 bodies have been discovered since June 12.

According to locals, the killings in Taung Yar Kone were carried out by junta troops.