MNDAA and TNLA tensions in Kutkai trigger two-week trade suspension and sharp rise in commodity prices

Mizzima

Inter-ethnic tensions between the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) and the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) have paralyzed trade in Kutkai Township for nearly two weeks, leading to a surge in the cost of basic necessities.

According to local reports on 24 February, a blockade enforced by MNDAA forces on the town’s outskirts has restricted the entry of rice, fuel oil, and coal since 13 February, forcing supply trucks arriving from Lashio to turn back.

Although the MNDAA’s trade ban has not yet caused a shortage of goods in town, prices have begun to rise.

“One example is that rice trucks coming from Lashio are being turned back. There is currently no shortage of goods in the town, but the prices of vegetables and other basic food items have increased significantly because the roads are closed,” a Kutkai resident said.

Fuel and coal transported from Namtu and Lashio are also being blocked from entering Kutkai.

The dispute between the two former allies both key members of the Three Brotherhood Alliance reportedly escalated after TNLA troops positioned within the town removed MNDAA-installed CCTV security cameras along Union Road. The situation deteriorated further on 20 February, when MNDAA personnel entered Ngawtngar village to demand a TNLA withdrawal, resulting in an altercation where two civilians were beaten. One victim remains hospitalized with serious injuries. 

Military sources say the MNDAA has been reinforcing its troops via Hsenwi and Tamoenye, while the TNLA has also been sending reinforcements through Mongyulay and Namhkam.

In response to the deteriorating humanitarian situation, the Ta’ang Civil Society Network (TCSN) issued an urgent appeal on February 24, calling on both armed groups to immediately cease the abuse of civilians and resolve territorial disputes through dialogue. The network warned that the use of movement restrictions and commodity bans as leverage in political disputes is “punishing the very people the revolution claims to protect.”

Both the TNLA and MNDAA are members of the Three Brotherhood Alliance that jointly launched Operation 1027, an offensive in which they previously fought together and achieved significant military gains.