Yangon, May 15 (IANS): Myanmar forces have seized a strategic hilltop, the last stronghold of the Kokang ethnic army, during combing operations, media reported on Friday.

State-run media 'Pyi Myanmar' reported that the last stronghold of Kokang's Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) was occupied by the government forces on Thursday.

The capture of Kokang army's last hilltop, Point 2202, came two days after three prior hilltops, Point-1607, Point 1709 and Point 1742, were also seized by the security forces on May 11 and 12, Xinhua news agency reported.

The clashes between the government forces and Kokang's Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) started on February 9.

During the period, at least 74 MNDAA members were killed and 22 arrested. Forces also confiscated 226 arms and ammunition and 27 billion kyats ($27 million) worth of narcotic drugs.

With the seizure of the hilltops, the forces have claimed total control of key locations of Laukkai, the capital of Kokang region.