KIA/KPDF Drone Strike on Junta Hilltop — SAC Retaliates with Airstrikes on Hpakant Civilian Areas

On April 11, Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and allied Kachin People's Defence Force (KPDF) dropped drone bombs at approximately noon on a junta strategic hilltop position in Hpakant Township, Kachin State, striking trenches and causing military casualties among SAC forces. The junta retaliated within 30 minutes, launching airstrikes on Hmawsi Khtaung ward, the garbage dump village area, and Cemetery Hill — civilian areas near the original drone target. Intense ground fighting with continuous artillery fire was reported throughout April 11 in Hmawsi Khtaung ward and Prayer Hill areas as KIA and SAC forces contested control of the strategically vital jade-mining township. The April 11 escalation continues the KIA's sustained offensive in Hpakant that began with the capture of six SAC frontline positions near Maw Wan Gyi on April 2. Hpakant Township's jade mines — which generate critical revenue for the SAC — have been under sustained KIA pressure for weeks. The pattern of junta retaliatory strikes against civilian residential areas following military setbacks is consistent with documented SAC collective punishment tactics across the conflict.