China flags alert on northern Myanmar

By Anadolu staff

China on Tuesday warned its citizen over high security situation in northern Shan State and urged Myanmar to ensure transfer of its national to safe places.

China's Embassy in Myanmar called for the safe transfer of Chinese personnel in Lashio and other areas, as currently there is a high security risk in northern Shan State, including Lashio, Global Times reported.

"The embassy reminded Chinese personnel in Lashio and other areas to promptly report their personal information to the embassy, take precautions, and expedite their transfer to safety, or their evacuation back to China, avoiding conflict zones," it said.

On Monday local media reported that rebel forces have captured a key military command center and several high-ranking officers in the northern Shan State, marking a significant setback for the ruling junta.

The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) and its allies said they seized control of the Northeast Command Headquarters in Lashio Township on Saturday after weeks of intense fighting. The rebels released photographs purportedly showing the captured facility.

The MNDAA is part of the Brotherhood Alliance, which includes the Ta'ang National Liberation Army and the Arakan Army. The alliance had previously entered a China-mediated cease-fire with the junta, known as the Haigeng agreement, which broke down following clashes in the northern Shan State.

This latest offensive, which began in October last year, has led to widespread displacement in the region and represents a significant challenge to the military government's control in northern Myanmar.

*Writing by Islamuddin Sajid