Myanmar military claims recapture of trade artery toward China

Myanmar’s military claimed Thursday to have recaptured a key northern transport corridor toward China. Above, soldiers ride in armored vehicles in Myitkyina, Kachin state on Feb. 3, 2021. (AFP file photo)

• ‘Terrorist insurgent groups’ crushed along a route linking the central and second-largest city of Mandalay to the northern hub of Myitkyina

YANGON: Myanmar’s military claimed Thursday to have recaptured a key northern transport corridor toward China after a 15-month battle, touting it as a counterblow to rebels in the civil war.
The military said it had crushed “terrorist insurgent groups” along a route linking the central and second-largest city of Mandalay to the northern hub of Myitkyina, about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from China’s border, according to a statement.
AFP could not independently verify the claim.