The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) is allegedly forcibly conscripting young men throughout towns along the Kachin-Sagaing border, according to local residents.Since early this month, the KIA has been primarily recruiting people in Katha Township, Sagaing Region, residents say—all part of their aim to more effectively fight against the junta.Young men, who have already been targeted by the regime’s forced conscription now face another threat—KIA fighters seizing recruits, adding to their struggle to avoid the battlefield. In recent days, KIA troops allegedly forcibly conscripted two men who were traveling. The same source claims the KIA enlisted another three bricklayers in Katha’s Pay Kone Village.According to sources, recruitment is taking place across towns in Sagaing; including Indaw, Maw Lu, and Katha, with KIA troops repeatedly entering small villages to conduct forced enlistments. Those refusing to join have been forced to flee.
“Around 6am. . .
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