Mizzima
The Myanmar junta instructed the faculty members, educational staff and students of Bhamo University to relocate to allow junta soldiers to occupy the campus in Bhamo Township, Kachin State, according to local reports.
Approximately 600 individuals were reportedly forced to vacate the university premises near Bhamo Airport on 7 March around 7:00 pm, after which army soldiers immediately took over and remained stationed overnight.
It is believed that the Military Council transferred Bhamo University’s instructors, education staff, and students to Technological University, situated three miles outside the township. Some students were reportedly compelled to relocate independently, according to sources.
On 7 March, in the early hours of the morning, the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and its allies launched attacks on military camps situated along the Myitkyina-Bhamo highway. Concurrently, the Military Council utilized Bhamo Airport to transport weapons and supplies to the battle zones.
Allegedly, KIA and allied forces used free-flight rockets and heavy weaponry to target Bhamo Airport in an effort to sever the supply line on 7 March at night. According to Kachin military sources, several members of the Military Council were injured at the airport, and some airport structures, including the runway, sustained damage. Currently, only military helicopters are authorized to land at Bhamo Airport, along with the roads connecting to it.
Furthermore, entry and exit gates of Momauk and Bhamo townships, such as Kyauksakhan gate, Nhanghpa gate, and Naungpo gate, have been locked.
Residents of Bhamo Township reported gunfire and the sound of heavy weapons being fired late on 7 March and early on 8 March, indicating escalating tensions in the area.
