This footage depicts Karenni fighters attacking government forces, which are referred to as Tatmadaw, in the Kayah state of Myanmar. Because there are casualties shown, viewer discretion is advised.

The Karenni or Karen are indigenous to the Myanmar/Thailand border region- specifically the Kayah state, a mountainous area of Northern Myanmar. The Karenni tribes, in various factions, have clashed with government forces many times since the 1950s, when the Karenni National Progressive Party (KNPP) began fighting for an independent state. This has welled over into the current violence in the region, with the Karenni Army becoming a major anti-junta force.

Starting at 0:10 seconds we see the Karen forces firing on the government troops in a depiction that is fairly typical of combat footage in this conflict. At 0:18, a clear view of the rocky, mountainous Kayah terrain gives an indication of what combat in this area must be like. At 01:25, an aircraft- presumably Tatmadaw, flies overhead.

What is atypical of this footage is that it shows the Karenni Army’s handiwork- government casualties are seen at 02:08. Most other anti-junta combat reels are more sterilized, with the casualties censored, if included at all.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.