Residents in Hsipaw Township, northern Shan State, say the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), also known as the Kokang Army, is preparing to begin gold mining near the confluence of the Nam Ma and Nam Pawng streams, raising concerns about environmental damage and the loss of farmland.

Local sources report that since mid-April, MNDAA members have moved heavy machinery, including backhoes and gold-processing equipment, to an area east of Nawng Nwe village in Nam Ma village tract. Villagers say access roads are already being constructed in preparation for mining.

“The machines arrived about two weeks ago, and now they are building roads,” said a local resident who asked not to be named for security reasons. “They told us they would start digging, but they didn’t ask for our permission. We don’t dare to object.”

The proposed site lies about one mile from Nawng Nwe village, home to more than 90 households. Most families rely on pomelo orchards and corn farming, making them particularly vulnerable to any disruption of land and water resources.

Residents say they are especially concerned about water pollution and soil degradation, particularly during the current planting season.

“If mining starts, it will affect our farms,” the resident said. “This is the time we plant corn, and we depend on that income. We are most worried about the water and the land.”

The planned operation follows earlier tensions related to mining in the region. On February 1, MNDAA troops reportedly detained 36 villagers in Man Sae village tract, Lashio Township, during protests against gold mining on farmland.

Residents in nearby areas allege that some detainees were beaten during interrogation, though these claims could not be independently verified.

The MNDAA is currently based near Nam Ma Bridge, but it remains unclear whether the mining plans have been coordinated with other armed groups operating in the area, including the Shan State Progress Party (SSPP). Some residents say they have raised concerns with SSPP representatives.

Similar gold mining activity has also been reported along the Nam Sin stream in Mong Ngaw, Kyaukme Township, where local sources allege involvement by armed groups and business interests. These claims have not been independently verified.

Residents say they have received little information about the project and fear its long-term impact on their livelihoods.

Local sources warn that without consultation or environmental safeguards, mining operations could further strain already vulnerable rural communities.