The Oukayithta military base, located in the northern Myawaddy Township in Kayin State, came under attack on June 26th.
A major offensive was launched by the Karen National Defence Organization and Karen National Liberation Army (KNDO/KNLA).
So far, reports of casualties on both sides have been largely obfuscated, with military spokesperson General Zaw Min Tun saying only that there have been casualties.
The KNDO/KNLA have also requested the spread of false information and rumours regarding the still ongoing battle.
Two days after the battle began, the anti-military forces managed to gain much ground, forcing the military to respond with air strikes, to prevent the base from falling.
According to announcements and local news media, quoting KNDO sources, military fighter jets are now using cluster bombs to keep their enemies from gaining more ground.
Local news media “Khit Thit” reported that fighter planes crossed over into Thailand’s Phop Phra District in Tak Province, angering Thai citizens.
Thai sources also confirmed that 281 people crossed over the border from Myanmar, presumably to escape the heavy fighting near to the Myanmar-Thailand border.
The KNDO/KNLA have also reportedly confirmed that at least 13 members of their forces have been killed in the battle, with scores more injured.
Five days have passed since the battle for the military camp began and it shows no signs of slowing down.
