KIA-PDF Forces Ambush Resuming Junta Flotilla Between Shwegu and Bhamo, Sink Vessel, 100+ Surrender

After being stalled in Shwegu since August 27 following an August 29 drone strike that disabled its lead warship, the junta's 15-vessel Ayeyarwady River resupply flotilla — which departed Mandalay's Gaw Wein jetty on August 21 — resumed its push toward Bhamo early on September 2, 2026. Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and allied People's Defence Force (PDF) units struck roughly eight vessels carrying troops, weapons and supplies along the Zinbon-Sinkhan stretch, sinking one of the largest armed vessels near Zinbon village and setting another ablaze near Sinkhan Bridge. Two vessels reportedly raised white flags and came ashore, with more than 100 soldiers, military family members, and officials surrendering to resistance forces; the KIA said its units also seized several vessels and took more than 100 prisoners of war during the fighting.