KIA Dismisses Rumours of China Detaining Rebel Leader

[geovalin]

 

The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) has firmly denied claims that its top political figure, General N’Ban La, has been placed under house arrest in China amid mounting speculation over Beijing’s role in the northern Myanmar conflict.

 

Speaking to The Irrawaddy, KIA spokesman Colonel Naw Bu dismissed reports that China had detained the general or used rare earth trade as leverage to force a halt to the KIA’s offensive against the junta-held town of Bhamo, near the Chinese border.

 

“These rumours are false,” Naw Bu said. “General N’Ban La is on a routine medical trip to China. He travels every two months and is due to return soon.”

 

The denials come after Reuters reported that Beijing warned the KIA in May it would halt rare earth imports from Kachin-controlled mines if the group pressed on with its Bhamo campaign. China was also said to have offered increased cross-border trade if the offensive was abandoned.

 

Naw Bu acknowledged China’s ongoing calls for a ceasefire but said he was unaware of any direct threats to trade. “China has always pushed for negotiations — that’s nothing new. But mineral exports continue as usual,” he added.

 

Rare earth shipments from KIA-controlled Pangwa, a major mining area, are reportedly flowing steadily, with fertiliser and food moving in the opposite direction. Local workers confirmed regular trade via the Pangwa border crossing.

 

The KIA seized control of Pangwa and neighbouring Chipwi in October last year — both key hubs for China’s supply of rare earths. China remains Myanmar’s primary market for both rare earth minerals and jade.

 

Military activity near Bhamo remains intense, with daily artillery exchanges and junta drone strikes, though Naw Bu said no fresh ground assaults had been launched. Clashes also continue in Hpakant, the centre of Myanmar’s lucrative jade industry.

 

A military analyst suggested that China is applying subtle pressure — offering trade incentives rather than outright threats — in hopes of containing instability near its border.

 

As fighting continues and geopolitical interests deepen, the KIA insists its leadership remains intact and undeterred by outside influence. “We’re holding our positions,” Naw Bu said. “So are they.”

 

-2025-07-14