The Irrawaddy‘s regular northern Burma reporter, Khun Sam, has posted some concerning news about recent developments in the Kachin State. It is worth reading in full. One part reads:

According to local residents, government officials, together with the police, immigration staff and the army, recently blocked all routes to KIO-controlled areas, particularly Laiza, where KIO headquarters are based. Imported Chinese goods, unlicensed vehicles and motorcycles are being confiscated, they say.

In recent years, border settlements, such as Laiza, in far eastern Kachin State, have provided invaluable links for businesses and ordinary people throughout the region. They are something of a lifeline. A blockade in the Kachin State could be very bad for business.