In Lashio Township, located in northern Shan State and recently a focal point of conflict, the junta has intensified defensive measures by airlifting hundreds of reinforcement troops and hundreds of thousands of empty sandbags.

Following a temporary ceasefire declared by the Three Brotherhood Alliance in Lashio, the junta swiftly moved to fortify positions, filling sandbags with sand, pebbles, and earth—a standard practice for bunker protection.

“These bags are typically sourced from the food procurement budgets of battalions. However, given the current critical period, hundreds of thousands are being airlifted to Lashio,” stated a military source to SHAN. “Additionally, several hundred reinforcements have been deployed”, he added.

On July 15, the junta conducted airlift operations to the Northeastern Regional Command in Lashio, simultaneously airdropping essential supplies and weapons to frontline troops.

After the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), a member of the Three Brotherhood Alliance and current leaders of the Lashio siege, announced a ceasefire beginning at midnight on July 14, the junta utilized this lull to bolster defenses within the town.

Despite the ceasefire declaration, reports suggest clashes may have resumed around Lashio on the morning of July 15, with locals hearing the sounds of artillery and small arms fire.