The Laiza Township Administration Office announced on July 30 that goods will not be sold at higher prices than usual during the crisis caused by Covid 19 and it would take action against those who put up prices.

Laiza is a town controlled by the Kachin Independence Organisation (KIO) and is headquarters of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA). About 20 people have been infected with the coronavirus in Laiza and it is currently in lockdown.

"The entrance is closed except for consumer goods imports. Refugee camps in Laiza, such as Wei Kyaing and Jayant, have also been in lockdown," a local said.