Myanmar clashes stretch into second day

Myanmar's junta seized power in Feb 2021, sparking renewed fighting with ethnic rebel groups in northern Shan state. Rebels seized 3 military outposts near Mongko, ambushed soldiers from Hopang and seized military equipment. Ta'ang National Liberation Army said 18 soldiers were killed and 2 outposts taken at Lashio. Junta spokesperson said rebels attacked military positions and China's Foreign Ministry called for all sides to prevent escalation.

Heavy fighting between rebels and the Myanmar military stretched into a second day near the country's northern border with China, armed groups said on Saturday.

Myanmar's junta seized power in a February 2021 coup that sparked renewed fighting with powerful ethnic rebel groups in northern Shan state.

An alliance of ethnic rebel groups launched coordinated attacks on military positions across the country's north on Friday, posing a fresh challenge to the junta as it struggles to quell resistance to its rule.

The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army said Saturday it had seized three military outposts — two located close to Mongko near the border with China.

The rebels also ambushed a group of soldiers coming from Hopang and seized military equipment.

The group did not provide details of fatalities.

The Ta'ang National Liberation Army said Saturday it had so far seized three military outposts at Namhkam and 18 soldiers were killed.