The rebels on the frontline of Myanmar’s civil war

Civil war has torn the country apart in the five years since Myanmar’s military commander staged a coup to overthrow the democratically elected government.

Thousands have been killed and millions displaced in clashes between the military and tribal and rebel groups.

Two years ago, the rebels made huge gains, but things got worse for them. Forced recruitment and increased drone power have put the military on the offensive in most parts of the country.

BBC journalist Quentin Somerville traveled to Myanmar without permission from the authorities – the only way to report from rebel-held territory.

During his 10-day stay, he spent time with rebel fighters and traveled to hospitals and frontline sites in Bago and Karen states to see how the battle was going.