Myanmar’s military announced the seizure of a key resistance command headquarters and 10 other bases in the country’s south, state media reported Tuesday. The operation, which unfolded over six days and began a week prior, targeted jungle-held positions along the border between Mon state and the Bago region.
The captures represent the latest setback for pro-democracy armed groups and ethnic militias fighting the army, including the People’s Defense Force, the armed wing of the National Unity Government, and the Karen National Liberation Army, the military arm of the Karen National Union.
State-run Myanma Alinn confirmed the operation secured 11 bases in the disputed border area, publishing photos of soldiers alongside seized ammunition, small arms, vehicles, drones, and computers recovered after four armed engagements. The military vowed to continue security operations in the region.
Independent verification of the reports could not be confirmed, as the military restricts journalist access to the affected zones, though the claims have not been publicly challenged.
The offensive underscores the military-backed government’s intensified efforts since taking office in April following controversial elections to retake territory held by resistance forces. The areas captured, located roughly 120 kilometers northeast of Yangon, have been sites of intense conflict since the 2021 takeover, which triggered widespread protests and a subsequent armed resistance.
While the NUG and KNU did not immediately respond to requests for comment, a previous NUG statement noted the presence of 12 PDF battalions, seven specialized drones, and six combat and defense units operating across southern Kayin, Mon, and Bago regions. Earlier in September, the NUG reported its communications outpost had been struck by airstrikes involving two fighter jets, killing five members of its force, including a defector.
