The Kachin Independence Organisation (KIO) opened a border checkpoint as part of its new administration over the Loije border point in Momauk township, Kachin State.
It was reported that the KIO raised the Kachin national flag in its administration office in Loije town on April 12, a day after the opening of the checkpoint, which currently permits only trucks to pass through.
Recent clashes led to the closure of the border and hospital, both under the control of the Military Council, which were subsequently overtaken in the area by the KIO’s political wing, the Kachin Independence Army. These closures lasted for two weeks, including the market, according to a local source.
The KIO is gradually establishing its departmental offices in Loije. Local residents expressed their desire for the Kachin armed group to ensure security in the town, which previously suffered from armed robbery and narcotic trafficking under the regime’s control. They noted that there was no safe haven in Loije under the previous regime and urged the KIO to curb the escalating criminal activities following the coup.
After the Infantry Battalion 142, the last regime soldiers in Loije, fled to China on April 8, the KIA seized control of the town.
