Hi folks, it is truly concerning to hear about the regime’s preparations and plans to accommodate the first batch of recruits, enforcing the conscription law in April. Five thousand men will be drafted against their own will to join Min Aung Hlaing’s army. While rejecting it may seem straightforward, we all know those on the ground face limited options. Let’s seek meaningful ways to help instead of simply advocating against the law. Meanwhile, the KIA’s offensive campaign in Kachin State has resulted in the seizure of several regime stations within days. Additionally, AA has captured its eighth town in just over three months, while KNLA & co have attacked military camps in Karen State. The regime is facing a tough time, but not so more than the people amidst ongoing humanitarian crises. Read the highlights below:
Internal Politics
- Regime said facilities ready to accommodate those enlisted under conscription law
General Tin Aung San, the regime’s Defense Minister, announced via state media that training schools are poised to accommodate individuals subject to the conscription law. The junta disclosed plans to enlist five thousand men in stages, beginning in April, under the conscription law passed in early February this year. Despite facing strong international criticism, the regime is forging ahead by establishing a “central group for militia service.” This group, chaired by General Tin Aung San, includes Vice-Chairman Coordinator General Maung Maung Aye, and comprises 18 members, including the Chief of Military Affairs, military advisor, and attorney general.
- AA urged Muslim community to reject conscription law
On March 2, the Arakan Army (AA) called upon the Muslim community in Rakhine State to rally against the Military Council’s conscription law, aiming to foster a peaceful, progressive, and united nation. The statement says the regime is resorting to various tactics to compel the Muslim community in Rakhine to join the military under the guise of militia laws they’ve implemented. The statement also highlights that during political crises, the military often manipulates divisions between the Rakhine and Muslim communities in Rakhine State, exacerbating ethnic and religious tensions. This move poses a significant threat to the peaceful coexistence of the two communities in Rakhine. Hence, the AA emphasized its efforts to promote social harmony and coexistence among different communities in the region since its administrative activities began in Rakhine, resulting in positive outcomes.
- Karen Border Guard Force to operate as Karen National Army (KNA)
On March 5, a Karen Border Guard Force (BGF) official confirmed plans to break away from the regime’s alliance and operate independently as the Karen National Army (KNA). Major Naing Maung Zaw of the BGF informed Myanmar Now that all commanders have tentatively agreed to the formation change, with official approval expected to be announced this month following briefings with lower-ranking forces. While the decision is still being finalized, Major Naing Maung Zaw indicated that the BGF ceased receiving salaries from the regime and no longer aligns with its army. He highlighted that transitioning to the KNA marks the initial step toward reuniting the fractured Karen armed forces.
- Regime’s declaration of martial law may jeopardize ceasefire agreement in Shan-north
The Three Brother Alliance (MNDAA, TNLA, AA) released a statement on March 6 that fighting might start again in northern Shan State. This comes after the regime declared martial law in areas controlled by the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA). The regime announced on March 4 that Namsan, Mantong, and Namtu cities in northern Shan State, held by the TNLA, were under martial law. The Three Brother Alliance said this move could disrupt the Haigen Agreement, reached between the alliances and the regime on January 11 with China’s help. The agreement included a ceasefire in the northern Shan region, reopening the China border trade route, ensuring China-Myanmar border stability, and reconstructing war-torn areas.
- Karenni court sentenced five including rector of Loikaw University to jail time
On March 6, it was reported that five individuals, including the rector of Loikaw University in Karenni (Kayah) State, were sentenced to two years in prison and fined 900,000 MMK each by the state court of the Karenni Revolutionary Force under Section 17 (1) of the Unlawful Association Act. The lawsuit was filed by the Karenni State Police (KSP), according to the Karenni State Court. In November, the Karenni Joint Forces raided Loikaw University, where regime troops were stationed, and relocated approximately 200 employees and family members, including the non-CDM-affiliated rector, to their controlled area. On November 28, the Karenni Interim Administrative Council (IEC) compelled 193 employees and family members who were not involved in the CDM to pledge solidarity with the people and refrain from engaging with any mechanisms of the military council. Among those sentenced to prison, including the rector, were individuals employed by the regime and held significant roles in the administration.
International Affairs
- JFM requested Italian government to deny residency to Rachel Tayza
The Justice For Myanmar (JFM) group has urged the Italian government not to allow Rachel Tayza, daughter of U Tayza, owner of the Htoo Company Group sanctioned by the European Union, to settle in Italy or access her assets. French lawyers William Bourdon and Lily Ravon, representing JFM, filed a complaint with Italian authorities on March 4, seeking an investigation into Rachel Tayza’s roles as a director and shareholder in Htoo Group companies. The complaint aims to freeze and repatriate her assets from Italy. According to JFM’s statement on March 8, Rachel Tayza resides in Italy and manages businesses affiliated with her family’s company, despite its EU sanctions. It’s noted that while in Italy, she retained shares in at least seven Htoo Group companies, including those established post-military coup and those directly linked to the regime’s military.
- ASEAN-Australia condemned on-going violence in Myanmar
The ASEAN-Australia Summit issued a statement strongly denouncing the ongoing violence in Myanmar and called for immediate action, including a comprehensive national-level political dialogue and the cessation of violence, alongside the provision of effective humanitarian aid. The statement affirmed the commitment to uphold the five consensuses adopted by ASEAN in addressing the Myanmar issue, emphasizing the importance of their implementation.
Furthermore, as the ASEAN Special Representative for Myanmar, was encouraged to make efforts to engage with all stakeholders involved in Myanmar affairs. The Australia-ASEAN Summit took place in Melbourne, Australia, from March 4 to 6. Notably, the regime’s representative was excluded from attending the summit. However, leaders from the nine ASEAN member countries, the ASEAN Secretary-General, the Prime Minister of Australia, and the Prime Minister of Timor-Leste participated in the summit.
- Chinese FM claimed China helped foster peace in Myanmar
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized China’s commitment to promoting global peace and development, including in Myanmar. He stated that China stands ready to assist in addressing challenges and fostering international unity and cooperation. Highlighting China’s role in mediating conflicts, Wang Yi cited China’s intervention in facilitating reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran, as well as brokering a ceasefire in northern Myanmar. He emphasized China’s support for political solutions to contentious issues. During a press conference on March 7, Wang Yi reiterated China’s dedication to safeguarding security and development, emphasizing its firm opposition to any form of bullying.
- Japan pledged additional USD 37 million to aid humanitarian crisis in Myanmar
On March 8, the Japanese government announced additional humanitarian aid for those affected by the military coup in Myanmar. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan stated that the aid would be channeled through various organizations, including the UN and community-based groups. The Japanese government highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, three years after the military coup, characterized by airstrikes, battles, and deteriorating conditions. The aid, totaling USD 37 million, aims to address urgent needs such as healthcare, nutrition for pregnant women and children, access to water and sanitation, and education, with a focus on providing food and medicine. Additionally, efforts to assist women who have been trafficked and support drug addicts in rehabilitation are included in the aid package. This assistance will benefit not only those within Myanmar but also Burmese individuals residing in Thailand.
- Thailand’s Move Forward leader promised to monitor and help Myanmar affairs
Thailand’s Move Forward party leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, expressed his commitment to closely monitoring the political situation in Myanmar and extending assistance to those facing crisis, as conveyed through his Twitter page. This statement follows a discussion held in the Thai Paliament, led by the Move Forward party, on the topic of “Three years after the coup d’état in Myanmar.” Pita Limjaroenrat affirmed his intent to oversee developments in Myanmar within the scope of his authority as a member of the Thai Paliament and collaborate with various stakeholders, including ASEAN countries. Furthermore, acknowledging Myanmar’s significance to Thailand’s national interests, he pledged to advocate for and support policies concerning Myanmar affairs.
Business Matters
- Chinese garment factory closed down, without proper compensation to workers
A Chinese-owned garment factory located in Hlaing Thayar Township, within the Shwe Thanlwin Industrial Zone, known as Fullway Myanmar Clothing, ceased operations abruptly at the end of February. The factory, which had been in operation for over a decade since December 2013, closed without providing prior notice to its approximately 200 workers. According to a female worker who had been employed at the factory for nine years, the closure left employees without receiving their full entitlements, including compensation based on their years of service and benefits such as one month’s worth of milk and leave allowances. She stated, “They paid the salary without indicating they would shut down, provided compensation once, and then closed.” The majority of workers at the garment factory are women, totaling around 200 employees.
- Armed conflict highly affected border trade in Karen State
Border trade from Myawaddy has experienced a significant decline of 42 percent, posing a potential threat to the regime’s trade income. This decline is largely attributed to ongoing clashes in the Myawaddy-Kawkareik Asian Highway, a crucial route for border trade with Thailand, as well as disruptions in the city of Kawkareik, a key stop for trucks. Statistics from the Ministry of Economy and Commerce under the regime reveal that trade volume at the Myawaddy border trade station from April to February 2023-24 amounted to only $1,085 million, compared to $1,866 million during the same period the previous year, representing a decrease of nearly $800 million. Among the six border crossings, including Tachileik, Kawthaung, Myeik, Hteekhee, and Mawtaing, Myawaddy has been the most affected by armed clashes. The Karen National Union (KNU) and the People’s Defense Forces (PDF) have been targeting military council camps along the Asia Road and in Kawkareik since late 2023. With the decline in trade volume from the Myawaddy border, tax revenue for the regime is expected to suffer.
- Myanmar-Bangladesh trade suspended due to on-going conflict
Trade between Myanmar and Bangladesh, facilitated through the Teknaf port in Bangladesh, has been suspended since March 3 due to the ongoing conflict in Rakhine State. This trade route typically sees the export of basic food and consumer goods from Myanmar. With Ramadan approaching, Bangladeshi traders are concerned about the shortage of goods in the local market. Before the conflict escalated in November, 15 to 22 ships arrived daily at the port, carrying items such as ice fish, dried fish, oil, rice, dried coconut, onion, ginger, and hardwood. However, since November, the number of ships has dwindled to only 5 or 6 per day, and now the trade has come to a complete halt. Another challenge facing Burmese traders is the inability to transfer money due to the lack of communication between banks in Maungdaw and Sittwe.
- Local gold price reached record high
In the local gold market, the price of one Kyattha (equivalent to 16 grams) of gold surged to a record high of over 4,000,000 Myanmar Kyats on the evening of March 6, according to individuals involved in the gold industry. There is reportedly an abundance of sellers compared to buyers. The selling price exceeds 4,000,000 Kyats, with prices fluctuating rapidly between 4,020,000 and 4,030,000 Kyats depending on the gold shop. A gold trader in Yangon attributed the price hike primarily to speculation among gold traders.
- Car showroom business halted since the regime’s ban on import
Many car showrooms in Yangon have shuttered their operations as the junta, which has restricted the use of dollars, imposed a ban on importing vehicles other than electric cars. This prohibition on the import and sale of popular fuel-dependent brands like petrol and diesel was implemented in October 2021, eight months post-coup. An official from the Myanmar Automobile Manufacturers and Distributors Association (MAMDA) highlighted that the ban on free import of both new and old domestic cars, encompassing commercial and passenger vehicles, has effectively halted the car business. Some car companies are resorting to importing car parts from abroad and utilizing the domestic assembly system (Semi Knocked Down – SKD system). However, while companies operating under the SKD system are permitted to manufacture vehicles for a limited duration, prolonged closure of car import licenses may pose challenges for existing international car companies to sustain their operations.
Humanitarian Affairs
- Over 150 youths arrested by Thai authorities for illegal entry
In the Kanchanaburi district along the Thai-Myanmar border, 156 young Myanmar nationals were arrested for illegal entry between March 4 and 7, according to labor support workers. The enforcement of the conscription law has prompted many young people aged 18 to 35 to cross the border illegally. Even with an official MOU, youths many choose to enter illegally out of fear of being identified. Thai security forces arrested 156 individuals over four consecutive days in Kanchanaburi District, situated on the border between Thailand and Karen State. The individuals arrested range in age from 18 to 35. Under the law, those entering Thailand illegally can face imprisonment for 45 to 90 days, while mass arrests could lead to sentences of four months to a year for human trafficking.
- Increased number of IDPs urgently need of help in Rakhine State
In Rakhine State, where there’s ongoing conflict between the junta’s forces and the Arakan Army (AA), the number of people displaced from their homes is increasing. These displaced individuals are facing difficulties accessing food and dealing with health issues due to the conflict. Moreover, airstrikes by the regime often force them to move to safer areas, making their living conditions even more challenging. One displaced person mentioned the lack of transportation within Rakhine State, which prevents them from receiving international humanitarian aid. Local aid workers are struggling to meet the needs of the refugees. Apart from food shortages, there’s also a shortage of medicine, hospitals, and clinics, leading to significant health problems among the refugees. As a result, both local and international organizations’ support is desperately needed. Local civil society organizations estimate that more than 35,000 people have fled their homes in Rakhine due to the ongoing conflict.
- Over 10,000 displaced due to clash in Kani tsp, Sagaing Region
In the town of Kani, Sagaing Region, a coalition of resistance forces are engaged in attacks on locations where the regime’s army is stationed. The fighting, which began on March 1 and continued until March 4, has prompted approximately 10,000 residents to flee the area. In Kani, on the west side of the Chindin River, the junta has around 150 troops stationed at various locations, including the town police station, general administration department, high school, and Shwezigon hill. Local residents reported that on the day the battle commenced, warplanes from military bases in Monywa and Kale conducted airstrikes at least four times. Additionally, on March 3, around 3 pm., a helicopter opened fire for nearly half an hour.
- Over 2,000 people displaced by on-going fights in Momauk tsp, Kachin State
Residents reported on March 8 that over 2,000 individuals from more than twenty villages have fled due to ongoing fighting between the regime’s forces and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) in Momauk Township, Kachin State. These residents from villages situated between Laiza and Momauk, stated that they are seeking refuge in the agri farms near Momauk. The fleeing began on March 7, with some households left with only one caretaker at home. Many of those fleeing are leaving behind mainly the elderly and children. The displaced refugees are currently taking shelter in Christian churches and are in need of assistance.
Attacks on the Junta’s Lackeys & Assets
- Lisu militia leader killed during ambush in Winemaw tsp, Kachin State
On March 7, the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) initiated an offensive targeting regime stations along the Myitkyina-Winemaw highway road. Among these stations was one controlled by U Shwe Min, a prominent Lisu militia leader. During the attack, U Shwe Min attempted to flee the battle, but KIA troops intercepted and assaulted his vehicle, resulting in his death near Aungmyay Village. U Shwe Min held a significant role in the regime’s administration in Kachin State. He was known for spearheading recruitment campaigns for the junta and organizing protests against the KIA on a regular basis.
- Myitkyina & Bhamo airports shutdown after KIA ambush in Kachin State
On March 7, the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) launched attacks on the regime’s airbase in Myitkyina and Bhamo cities in Kachin State. During the assault, free-flight rockets were utilized, resulting in the destruction of a military helicopter and a taxiway at the airports. As a result of the damage, both airports (Myitkyina, Bhamo) were shut down beginning on March 9.
- Regime’ airforce staff housing blasted in Insein tsp, Yangon
On the evening of March 8, the Yangon-based Urban Special Force (U.S.F) conducted an attack on the staff housing building of the junta’s air force in Insein Township, Yangon. The attack involved the use of a 40 MM rocket. While speculation suggests destruction and casualties, specific details regarding the extent of damage and injuries remain unknown at this time.
- Police guards of minister killed during guerilla attack in Sagaing tsp, Sagaing Region
On the morning of March 9, an ambush targeted four policemen from the Ywarthitkyi Police Station in Sagaing Township, Sagaing Region. These officers were assigned to provide security for the regime’s industry minister during his visit to a university. While en route to extort money from travelers, the policemen encountered an attack by two local resistance forces on the Sagaing-Monywa-Shwebo highway road. All four policemen were killed in the ambush. Additionally, four guns were confiscated following the incident.
Arbitrary Arrests, Killings & Violence
- A dozen of villagers butchered by regime’s troops in Taze tsp, Sagaing Region
The Taze People’s Administrative Force under the National Unity Government issued a statement on March 6, revealing that between February 21 and March 1, the regime’s troops brutally murdered 11 civilians from the western villages of Taze Township, Sagaing Region.
According to the statement, the victims were men aged 29 to 70, who were killed after being abducted by the military as hostages. Shockingly, only one victim was shot, while the bodies of the other 10 victims showed signs of having their throats slashed and being dismembered. Eyewitnesses reported discovering severed body parts at the scenes of the crimes. The victims were U Wai, aged 70, U Zin Min Ko, aged 29, U San Po, aged 50, Ko Win Naing, aged 50, U Shan, aged 52, Ko Min Han, aged 52, Ko Swe Lin, aged 45, Ko Maung Toe, aged 27, U Nyein Cho, aged 49, U Htay Aung, aged 52, Ko Moe Zaw Oo, aged 45.
- Political prisoner died in Daik-U Prison, Bago Region due to inadequate medication
A political prisoner in his 60s passed away on March 6 in Daik-U Prison located in the Bago Region due to inadequate medical care and lack of access to essential medication. The deceased individual was identified as U Khin Soe, a 64-year-old farmer from Bago Region, originally from Katut Village in Waw Township. He was among the residents arrested and imprisoned in 2023 following an attack by resistance rangers on regime forces in the village. U Khin Soe was charged under Section 52 (a) of the Anti-Terrorism Act and Section 50 (j) of terrorism financing (j), resulting in a sentence of 14 years in prison. Having suffered from a chronic stomach condition, U Khin Soe frequently experienced stomach pains and was often hospitalized for constipation-related issues. Previously, detainees were able to receive medication through their families. However, since July 2023, the prison authorities prohibited families from sending medicines to the prisoners.
- Regime’s artillery killed child and teacher in Kyauthtu tsp, Magwe Region
On March 7, tragedy struck in Kyauktu Town, Magwe Region, when an explosion from the regime’s artillery shells resulted in the deaths of a five-year-old child and a teacher. The junta’s artillery unit in Kyauktu city reportedly fired at least eight times, with approximately four shells detonating near the village of Kyantaw, located roughly 3 miles away from the unit. In the village, five-year-old Mg Arkar Phone Khant succumbed to a chest puncture wound caused by the explosion. Additionally, Daw Win Win Khaing, a 30-year-old teacher actively involved in the civil disobedience movement (CDM), passed away due to injuries sustained to her lower body. The regime’s Kyauktu artillery unit has a history of firing heavy weapons at nearby villages even when there is no ground battle between the army and the resistance forces.
- Two men killed as the regime bombed elderly’s meditation center in Myawaddy tsp, Karen State
On the morning of March 8, tragedy struck in Ywarthit Village, Myawaddy Township, Karen State, when a bomb dropped by a regime fighter struck the clinic of the Thabawatayar Yeittha meditation center. As a result, two men over the age of 50 lost their lives, and at least eight elderly individuals sustained injuries. Ywarthit Village, situated more than 1 kilometer east of Thin Gan Nyi Naung Village, serves as a military strategic base for the regime’s army. The bomb claimed the lives of two individuals instantly as it directly hit the elderly’s housing. Approximately 200 civilians, who were practicing meditation at the center and receiving healthcare, are now fleeing to safety as the fighting continues to intensify in the area.
- Rohingyas killed by regime’s artillery fire in Sittwe, Rakhine State
A tragic incident occurred in Sittwe, the capital of Rakhine State, on March 9, resulting in the death of eight Rohingyas and injury to nine others. The casualties occurred when heavy artillery fired by the regime’s forces exploded in a residential area around 9 pm. A resident reported that the police battalion unit 12 fired at least two shells, and one of the shells detonated near the center of the city, specifically in the vicinity of Aung Mingala Ward and Ka Thae Ward, causing numerous casualties. All nine injured individuals and the eight deceased victims are Muslims, and included children. It is reported that the injured have been transferred to Sittwe Hospital for treatment.
Armed Resistance
- AA seized Ponnakyun, the latest capture in Rakhine State
On March 4, the Arakan Army (AA) reportedly took control of Ponnakyun Town, marking the eighth town captured since the launch of their offensive in November. The town’s last remaining battalion, Light Infantry Unit 550, fell after a 13-day offensive from February 21 to March 4. The AA announced that a significant number of officers and soldiers, including Colonel Myo Min Ko Ko, a military strategist for the regime, Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Phyo Thu Aung, and Major Saw Htwe, were among those killed in the clash. The AA also claimed to have prevented an attempted reinforcement by the regime, stopping all three junta ships that arrived for support, as they seized the entire Ponnakyun Town. AA vowed to continue fighting until they get rid of all the regime troops in the Rakhine State. So far, a total of eight townships (seven in Rakhine and one in Chin) have been occupied by the AA.
- Week-long clashes killed dozens of civilians in Loilin tsp, Shan State (south)
The Pa-o Youth Organization (PYO) reported on March 4 that fighting persisted for 42 days in Loilaw Township, Shan State (south), resulting in the deaths of 47 civilians. Between January 21st and March 2nd, civilian casualties were documented amidst clashes involving the regime’s army, the Pa-o National Army (PNA) militia, and the Pa-o National Liberation Army (PNLA). Among the deceased is a 6-month-old child, along with a boy and three girls aged between 5 and 10 years old. Of the adult casualties, 34 were men and 2 were women. The gender of the rest could not be identified. The PYO spokesperson highlighted that civilians are particularly vulnerable to heavy weapons fire and aerial bombardment by the military council. The conflict began on January 20, 2024, when combined forces of the regime and the Pa-o National Army (PNA) militia intercepted a PNLA convoy transporting weapons, sparking clashes.
- Resistance forces controlled the majority of Kani Town, Sagaing Region
Since March 2, the local resistance forces have launched an offensive to gain control of Kani Town in the Sagaing Region, located approximately 30 miles away from the regime’s Northwestern Military Command (Namakha). As of March 7, they have successfully secured the majority of the town. The regime had deployed nearly 150 troops in various key locations such as the police station, the General Administration Department (GAD) office, and the high school In Kani, located on the west bank of the Chindin River. All those locations were targeted and subsequently taken over by the resistance forces after six days of intense fighting. However, the regime’s army is fiercely defending the town from the air, indicating their determination to maintain control. The offensive was launched by the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and the People’s Defense Forces (PDF) of the National Unity Government (NUG).
- KIA launched offensive campaign in Kachin State
The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and allied forces, mobilizing thousands of troops, initiated an offensive campaign in Kachin State, marking a significant escalation in the armed resistance. The Arakan Army (AA), the People’s Defense Force (PDF), and local armed groups are collaborating with the KIA. The offensive began on March 7, concurrently targeting multiple military camps near Laiza, the headquarters of the KIA, as well as the Myitkyina Air Force Base and other strategic locations such as Waingmaw, Bhamo, and Dawthponeyan. Within a few hours of the offensive’s commencement, the regime’s army bases along the Myitkyina-Bhamo road fell into the hands of the KIA and its allies. Over the course of three days from March 7 to 9, a total of 16 regime’s military camps were seized by the advancing forces.
- Fighting intensified in Tanintharyi Region, with airstrikes happening every day
The clashes between the regime’s forces and resistance groups in Tanintharyi have reached a critical point, with aerial bombardment becoming a daily occurrence since February. Entire villages are being evacuated as local residents flee the relentless air attacks. According to a ranger from the Dawei District Defense Force, the junta has been utilizing air strikes regularly in battles within the Ashae Taw area, Dawei District throughout March. The Dawna Tanintharyi group has reported that approximately 7,000 residents have fled their homes due to the ongoing warfare in the Ashae Taw area.
- Intense clash broke out in Myawaddy tsp, Karen State
Since March 7, a fierce battle has erupted between the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA)-People’s Defense Force (PDF) joint forces and the regime’s troops. The resistance forces initiated an attack on the regime’s Light Infantry Battalion 355 stationed in Thingan Nyi Naung Village, situated under Brigade 6 of the Karen National Union (KNU). Local residents have reported that personal vehicles and trucks are now avoiding Asia Road and opting for bypass roads to steer clear of the ongoing clashes in the area. On March 8, the regime’s troops intensified its assault by air bombarding near Thingan Nyi Naung village, where the battle was underway. Consequently, many locals fled to the nearby town of Myawaddy in search of safety.
Sources: Myanmar Now, Khit Thit Media, Mizzima News, VOA Burmese, RFA Burmese
