Burma-Myanmar: 47 Government troops killed, tens of thousands flee from heavy fighting in Shan State
Burmese state media announced on Friday that Burma Army operations against ethnic Kokang rebels in northern Shan State have cost the lives of 47 soldiers so far, while 73 were wounded during the recent heavy fighting.
The Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper said at least three armed engagements on Feb. 9-12 between government forces and the rebels, also known as the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), in the Kokang Special Region’s Laukkai Township led to the casualties.
It said “Kokang renegade troops” attacked a pro-government militia and were prevented from assaulting a military headquarters in Kongyan region, adding that the army responded with five airstrikes.
“So far, the fighting has left the government forces with 47 dead, 73 wounded and five vehicles destroyed,” the paper said. “The Kokang renegade groups were found to be good at military maneuvering with the use of scores of heavy weapons, including anti-aircraft machine guns.”