Myanmar Junta Loses Four Bases as Resistance Forces Intensify Attacks

Staff Reporter

Feb 8, 2024, 07:44 AM2 min read

Myanmar Junta Loses Four Bases as Resistance Forces Intensify Attacks

Troops of the Ta’ang National Liberation Army are seen at a seized junta base in northern Shan State during Operation 1027. / TNLA

In the past three days, the Myanmar junta faced significant setbacks, losing four bases, including two military battalion headquarters, as People’s Defense Forces (PDFs) and ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) escalated attacks on regime targets nationwide. Intense clashes erupted in Sagaing Region as junta forces attempted to retake the town of Kawlin, which had been under the control of the civilian National Unity Government (NUG). Despite heavy bombardment, PDFs and ethnic armies maintained control. In Rakhine State, the Arakan Army (AA) claimed to have seized two military headquarters and a strategic border outpost, causing over 260+ junta troops to flee into Bangladesh.

The Arakan Army (AA) achieved notable successes in Rakhine State, taking control of military headquarters in Minbya Township and the strategic border guard outpost of Taung Pyo on the Bangladesh border in Maungdaw Township. The clashes continued in various townships, including Mrauk-U, Kyauktaw, Ramree, and others. Simultaneously, in Sagaing Region's Kawlin Township, heavy clashes ensued as junta forces attempted to retake the district-level town from PDF and NUG control. The junta deployed aircraft and artillery units, but resistance groups remained in control despite ongoing bombardments.

In Magwe Region, Yesagyo PDF claimed to have killed army Major Chan Myae Aung, the chair of the Yesagyo Township General Administration Council, in an ambush. Another resistance ambush in Seikphyu Township resulted in the killing of two regime forces, including an army captain. The attack targeted a military vehicle carrying fuel tanks. Additionally, in Tanintharyi Region, the Ba Htoo Army and Dawei Collective Column jointly attacked and seized the Mae Way hilltop military base, located near the headquarters of two military battalions in Dawei Township. The resistance forces captured military weapons and ammunition during the raid.

The intensity of the clashes escalated in Mandalay Region's Myingyan Township, where PDF groups attempted to occupy a military base housing 80 troops in Myauk Kyun Village. Despite initially gaining ground, the resistance forces had to retreat when the junta counterattacked with heavy explosives and drone strikes.

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