This archive report was first published on 15 August 2019.
Published on August 15, 2019, a report highlighted the escalating conflict in Myanmar's east, where ethnic armed rebel groups have been fighting against the military for decades.
The region, known for its rich natural resources, has become the world's largest meth-producing area, funding the complex web of conflicts.
On Thursday, a brazen assault targeted Pyin Oo Lwin, a tourist town near Mandalay, which is also home to barracks teeming with soldiers receiving training.
Images from local media showed the devastating aftermath, with burned-out cars riddled with bullet holes and damaged buildings showered in debris.
The Taaung National Liberation Army (TNLA) claimed responsibility for the attacks, stating that they were launched in retaliation for military offensives.
"Fighting took place at five places this morning," TNLA spokesman Major Mai Aik Kyaw told AFP, adding that clashes were ongoing.
The attacks targeted the Defence Service Technology Academy (DSTA) and a police station near the Gokteik bridge, a popular rail route for sightseers.
Military spokesman Brigadier General Zaw Min Tun confirmed the attacks, stating that one civilian had been killed and two members of the security forces had been injured.
He attributed the attacks to the military's recent seizure of tonnes of drugs in neighbouring Shan state.
