18-2-2024 (YANGON) In the northern Shan state of Myanmar, the once-thriving village of Nam Hpat Kar now lies in ruins, a casualty of the intense conflict between the military and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA). A prominent golden Buddha, symbolizing protection and fear dispelling, watches over families sifting through the wreckage of their homes.
The KIA claims to have captured Nam Hpat Kar in late January after a month-long battle, leaving the village decimated. Nann May, a resident who recently built a house with her family, described the harrowing experience of fleeing as military aircraft closed in during the intense fighting.
Upon returning to Nam Hpat Kar after the KIA takeover, Nann May found her home and many others damaged or destroyed. The village, strategically located on Myanmar’s main highway to China, now faces an uncertain future with residents grappling with unemployment, loss of homes, and a profound sense of grief.
The devastation in Nam Hpat Kar is part of a series of setbacks for Myanmar’s ruling junta in recent months. An offensive launched by an alliance of ethnic minority armed groups since October has resulted in the capture of territories along the China border and control of crucial trade crossings. These victories have emboldened the “People’s Defence Forces,” dedicated to reversing the 2021 coup, leading to widespread attacks across the country.
Analysts suggest that these developments have placed the ruling junta in its most vulnerable position since seizing power. In response to the challenging situation, the junta announced plans to conscript young men and women into its ranks. However, for the villagers of Nam Hpat Kar, the talk of victory appears hollow as they grapple with the aftermath of air and artillery strikes.
Surviving day-to-day has become the next struggle for those who witnessed the destruction.
