Download PDF File – Monthly Summary of Key Events in Karenni State (April 2026)
Houses of IDPs Damaged by Strong Winds
In Karenni State, strong winds and heavy rains have caused significant damage to houses of internally displaced persons (IDPs), as well as schools and clinics. Consequently, IDPs are requesting assistance.
In the eastern part of Demoso Township, no fewer than 40 houses were damaged, while more than 50 were damaged in the western part. In Hpruso Township, at least 13 houses were destroyed.
Human Rights Violations
- Demoso Township
On April 6, the military junta troops fired heavy artillery into the western part of Demoso Township, damaging some houses. On April 13, another 8 artillery shells were fired again into the western part, though no casualties were reported.
- Hpruso Township
On April 2, 16 civilian houses near the border of Hpruso and Bawlakhe townships were burned down. On April 3, the junta carried out a drone attack in Mawchi, injuring one woman. On April 12, another drone attack in Hpruso Township damaged two houses and a school.
- Nanmekhon Township
On April 23 and 25, the military launched drone and artillery attacks in Nanmekhon Township, leading to the deaths of 4 civilians and injuries to 2 others.
- Loikaw Township
On April 27, four civilians were injured after stepping on landmines in Loikaw town.
In military-controlled Loikaw, soldiers frequently arrest young people. According to locals, detainees are only released after their guardians pay between 3 and 5 million kyats (30 and 50 lakh).
Before the Thingyan festival, three youths were arrested for wearing black face masks while walking on the street, which made authorities suspicious. Each of them had to pay 5 million kyats, along with one sack of rice and one container of cooking oil, for their release.
Similarly, youths involved in a fight during celebrations on April 16 (Thingyan A-tet or day of ascent) were arrested the following day (April 17) by a 15-member militia group conducting house-to-house arrests.
On April 19, at around 8 p.m., two youths from Nambawwam ward were arrested by plainclothes soldiers using a civilian vehicle, according to the witnesses. Their family members searched for them at the Loikaw police station but were told they were not detained there. They were later found in a military unit and released after paying 3 million kyats.
- Hpasawng Township
On April 2, the military troops stationed in Hpasawng town attacked the Mawchi area, locally known as Mile 1 and Mile 7, using two suicide drones. In the attack, a woman over 60 years old was injured.
On April 25, around 5 p.m., a suicide drone exploded near a main road in the LayHtatkwae (four-tire road) area of Mawchi, though no casualties were reported.
Although there were no airstrikes in Mawchi during April, the military continued attacking civilian areas with suicide drones, increasing fear and insecurity among residents.
Military Situation
Currently, military forces controlling Hpasawng town are attempting to advance toward the Mawchi area, targeting civilian-populated locations, according to revolutionary forces.
While there have been no major clashes recently, small skirmishes, including drone attacks and ambushes, continue to occur.
Frequent drone strikes and occasional air attacks by the military have forced civilians in Mawchi to flee their homes.
Formation of No. (1) Alpha Military Region in Moebye
On April 21, the No. (1) Alpha Military Region was formed in Moebye, with participation from the KNDF Strategy No. (1) and No. (8), Moebye PDF, and other local forces.
This formation aims to unify revolutionary forces in Moebye, one of the four historical regions of Karenni State, until a statewide unified army can be established, and to continue advancing the revolutionary movement.
The newly formed Alpha Military Region operates under the political, military, and administrative guidance of the Karenni Interim Executive Council (IEC), its Ministry of Defense (DOD), the Karenni Joint Chiefs Committee, and the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF).
Armed Clash Between Revolutionary Groups
On April 24, an armed clash occurred between revolutionary groups in the Moebye area, resulting in 9 deaths.
According to local sources, the incident happened when revolutionary forces attempted to meet Moebye Local PDF leader Ko Aung Min and some of his members for negotiations, leading to an exchange of fire.
Locals reported that Ko Aung Min had been accused of abusing power and intimidating civilians, prompting other allied groups to intervene. It was during this meeting that the shooting occurred. However, these claims have not yet been independently verified by Kantarawaddy Times.
At present, the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) is investigating the incident and taking necessary actions.
