Kachin Human Rights Watch: At Least 30 Civilians Killed, 42 Arrested in Two Months of Kachin Conflict

The Kachin Human Rights Watch documented at least 30 civilians killed and 42 civilians arrested across four townships in Kachin State during approximately March–April 2026, coinciding with the most intense phase of KIA-junta fighting in the state since the conflict began. The period documented includes the KIA's multi-axis April 2026 offensive — which encompassed the April 2 capture of 6 SAC positions near Hpakant, the April 11 KIA/KPDF drone strike on a junta hilltop, the April 19 militia ambush killing ~40, the April 23 indefinite road closure, and the May 2–4 Shwegu battle in which KIA killed 40 SAC troops. The junta responded with retaliatory airstrikes, artillery, and mortar attacks on civilian areas throughout this period, documented across Hpakant, Putao, Myitkyina, and Bhamo townships. The 30 civilian deaths and 42 arrests represent only the cases Kachin Human Rights Watch could individually document with available information — actual figures are significantly higher given the access restrictions and ongoing active fighting in remote Kachin areas. Mizzima reported this documentation on May 5, 2026.