Myanmar Spring Chronicle – June 3 View
(MoeMaKa) June 4, 2025
Armed clashes, killings, and significant national developments
Recent daily news reports from various media outlets have highlighted that over the past few days, the MNDAA (Kokang armed group) attacked the SSPP/SSA (one of the two Shan armed groups in northern Shan State), resulting in 8 MNDAA soldiers killed, according to a statement by SSPP/SSA.
In a separate development, large-scale military columns of the junta forces, which had withdrawn for some time, advanced toward and entered Hpakant town. Meanwhile, in Karen State, the KNU/KNLA forces continued seizing one military camp after another along the eastern slopes of Dawna Mountain.
In Nyaung-U Township, six people, including a village administrator, were killed when PDF groups attacked a Dhamma hall in the southern part of New Bagan’s Gantgaw ward. In Hsihseng Township, a video emerged showing the execution of four PNLA members by a joint force of the PNA border guard and junta troops.
In eastern Shan State, the United Wa State Army conducted military parades and ceremonies, while Thai political influencers accused the Wa forces of involvement in the drug trade within Thailand—an allegation currently circulating in the media.
Junta’s advance toward Hpakant
The military column moving toward Hpakant reportedly faced little resistance en route, with some troops nearing the town. Over the past year, the junta lost many controlled areas in Kachin State. As the KIA intensifies attacks on Bhamo and SAC Brigade 21, the junta appears to be pushing toward Hpakant—a region rich in natural resources that had slipped from its grasp.
During this incursion, some jade mines and employee dormitories were torched. Yesterday, an explosion occurred within the premises of a jade mining company in Hpakant’s Mawsihta area, resulting in dozens of casualties. Some reports claim the explosion was caused by an artillery shell striking an ammunition warehouse; others say it was an accidental detonation.
Despite four years of civil war, jade mining in Hpakant has continued, driven by the demand for quick cash to fund the conflict. Jade, precious stones, rare earths, gold, and timber remain vital resources eagerly sought by all armed groups.
With civilian administration absent and environmental regulations disregarded, revenue from natural resources like jade becomes a primary means of sustaining the war effort.
MNDAA-SSPP conflict near Lashio
SSPP/SSA reported that MNDAA forces attacked one of its columns near Han Nar village in Lashio Township, killing eight MNDAA soldiers. There has been no response from the MNDAA.
SSPP/SSA, which has not collaborated or clashed with junta forces, seems focused on maintaining control over its traditional northern Shan territories to uphold its political and military standing. It also competes with the RCSS, which is active in southern Shan State.
Clashes among ethnic armed groups could undermine the broader revolutionary movement aiming to topple the military dictatorship and establish federal democracy. Such infighting reinforces perceptions that territorial control depends more on military strength than political legitimacy.
PDF attack in Nyaung-U
Another incident involved a PDF attack on a meeting at a Dhamma hall in Gantgaw ward, south of New Bagan, Nyaung-U Township. Six people, including a local administrator and residents, were killed. Some media report it happened during a community meeting for a Buddhist ritual, while others claim the administrator was extorting money from villagers when the PDFs intervened. Despite differing versions, the death toll remains consistent.
Local People’s Defense Forces have emerged across villages and townships in Nyaung-U and Bagan. Rather than formal territorial control, current operations often involve assassinations or sudden attacks on those seen as collaborating with the junta or Pyusawhti militias.
PNLA execution video
The final incident involves a video showing the execution of four PNLA members who were captured in early 2025 in Hsihseng Township by the junta-affiliated PNA. The footage was reportedly obtained from a recently captured junta soldier and distributed by the PNLA.
Junta forces are known to execute enemy prisoners after interrogation rather than detain them for long periods. In contrast, revolutionary forces generally avoid killing POWs and treat them in accordance with the Geneva Conventions, encouraging surrender.
Prisoner exchanges are rare. One exception has been the AA-junta context, where direct swaps occur. In most other cases, armed groups eventually release captives rather than conduct exchanges.