Intensifying clashes between Myanmar junta troops and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) in Hpakant Township of Kachin State has led to casualties.

According to local residents, fighting between Military Council troops and the KIA has intensified in the Hpakant Township, forcing people from some villages to flee for safety.

"Currently, due to military activities, the locals are fleeing for fear of more battles," a local resident said.

Local residents stated that nearly 500 villagers evacuated due to military operations by junta troops in the villages such as Kaungsan, Taungcolt, Hwayhkar, Satpyarchaung, Kayinchaung and Bwannan from Seikmu village-tract of Hpakant Township.

According to locals, the military council forces have been firing heavy weapons into the villages for more than a week.

On 23 November, around 5:00 pm, Military Council troops opened fire on the villages of Kaungsan and Taungcolt, causing at least three houses to burn and injuring at least 10 local residents, killing one.

"Children and adults were both hurt. I heard one of them died. At the hospital, the children are receiving medical treatment,” a resident said.

According to another local resident, on the morning 25 November, between Ward (3) and Ward (4) of Hsengtaung village, Hpakant Township, heavy artillery fired by Military Council forces hit two siblings riding a motorcycle. They are reported to be in critical condition and receiving emergency treatment at Hpakant Hospital.