2-12-2023 (YANGON) In a battered pickup truck, pro-democracy fighters traverse the war-torn streets of Loikaw, the eastern city in Myanmar, on a mission to capture their first state capital from the ruling junta. Led by Mr Lin Lin, the group hails from Loikaw township, a source of deep motivation as they strive to reclaim their homes.
Mr Lin Lin is part of the People’s Defence Force (PDF), one of numerous groups that emerged across Myanmar in response to the military coup in 2021. Their current focus is set on capturing Loikaw, posing a significant challenge to the junta’s authority.
For weeks, PDFs and allied ethnic minority groups have engaged in intense battles with the Myanmar army in and around Loikaw, a city nestled in the hills of Kayah state, with approximately 50,000 residents. The conflict has forced thousands to flee due to air attacks, artillery bombardments, and urban warfare.
The ongoing offensive, known as Operation 1027, initiated five weeks ago along the northern border with China, represents the most significant threat faced by Myanmar’s military since seizing power. As clashes erupted in various states, including Kayah, PDF groups intensified their efforts.
Footage obtained by AFP from inside Loikaw depicts abandoned buildings, shops, and streets scarred by explosions. Artillery shells have damaged structures, and fortified positions with sandbags dot street corners. The military is reportedly confined to the city police station and other buildings, relying heavily on air and artillery strikes.
Despite the junta’s assertion of maintaining control, pro-democracy forces contest this claim. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing acknowledged the intensity of the assault on Loikaw but insisted the region remained “under control.” The UN evacuated most of its staff from Loikaw in November due to aerial bombardments and active street fighting.
In the north, ethnic minority groups like the Arakan Army, Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, and Ta’ang National Liberation Army have captured numerous military outposts, displacing over 500,000 people across the country since the launch of Operation 1027.
Approximately 70% of Loikaw’s population has reportedly fled in recent weeks, with pro-democracy groups alleging the military’s interference in civilian evacuation efforts. The fighters remain steadfast, aiming for a symbolic victory in capturing a state capital despite concerns about potential costs to both their forces and the city itself.
Mr Lin Lin expressed their only fear as being the military’s airstrikes, highlighting the determination of pro-democracy forces in their struggle against the junta’s rule.
