During the six clashes in Paikhun (aka Pekon) Township in May there were 19 sit-tat (Burma army) soldiers killed and 6 soldiers died from the Demoso People’s Defence Force (PDF) Battalion 1102, a resistance group battling the military regime in Taunggyi District, southern Shan State.

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“The Burma army has sent more troops into Paikhun Township and is attacking it with its air force and artillery,” Bway Hom, leader of the Kham Koung Pa-Oh National Defence Force, told SHAN. He explained that the area was of strategic importance to the regime, which wanted to wrestle control from the resistance.

Last month, the sit-tat flew two airstrikes on the township, according to information provided by the PDF group.

On 20 May, the regime engaged the PDF for half an hour between Hkawng Ei and La Tu, with the latter capturing a spy drone and ammunition.

On 22 May, two clashes occurred in which at least 12 sit-tat died and 1 PDF soldier was seriously injured. The next day 2 PDF were injured and some enemy soldiers killed between Settaw and Hkawng Ei.

On 30 May, 2 soldiers died and 1 PDF injured in Settaw. At least 5 sit-tat soldiers were killed the following day and 2 PDF soldiers wounded.

Until now, the situation remains tense with clashes continuing in the township in Taunggyi District.