Hi folks, last Tuesday, a rumor circulated on social media claiming that Min Aung Hlaing had been ousted in an internal coup in Naypyitaw. It took several hours to confirm that this was false. During that time, people both inside and outside the country were excited, as Min Aung Hlaing has been the public enemy number one since the coup began. While we were briefly uplifted by the rumor, we recognize that simply removing one or two individuals is not enough; the entire institution needs to be overhauled.
In the early days of the coup, we were mocked by rumors spread by military supporters because we wanted to believe in victory despite lacking effort. Even now, we still fall victim to fake news, but we no longer blindly trust misinformation. Our belief in defeating the regime is supported by hard data. It’s not a matter of if, but when.
Internal Politics
- Three Brotherhood Alliance reaffirmed unity and mission to Myanmar’s collective goal
On August 12, the Three Brotherhood Alliance (MNDAA, TNLA, AA) released a statement reaffirming their unity and commitment to achieving Myanmar’s political goals. The statement highlighted the successes of “Operation 1027,” and expressed gratitude to those who supported their city-occupation battles. The alliance thanked the oppressed Myanmar people for their support and emphasized their mission to protect lives, property, and self-defense. “Operation 1027,” launched on October 27 last year, aims to eradicate military dictatorship and combat online gambling and money laundering, especially along the China-Myanmar border. The first wave ended in January 2024, and the second wave began in late June.
- Rehabilitation & administrative tasks initiated by MNDAA in Lashio
On August 3, after a month-long offensive, the MNDAA and allied forces captured Lashio, the capital of northern Shan State and the base of the Northeast Regional Military Command. As fighting ceased, residents began returning home, and administration work resumed. A resident from Ward 1 reported seeing people and cars returning, with no more gunfire heard. Main roads into the town have reopened, and bus services are resuming. Since August 11, the Kokang Army (MNDAA) has been counting employees who participated in the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) in Lashio Township to return to work. However, a resident mentioned that details of the return to work are still unknown as censuses are being conducted ward by ward. MNDAA police patrols are visible, checking vehicles to prevent robberies. While the central market remains closed, neighborhood markets have reopened, and essential goods are available despite rising prices. However, a curfew and nighttime fire restrictions are still in place due to ongoing security concerns.
- Regime denied coup rumors
The regime’s propaganda team reportedly denied rumors of an internal coup spread on social media on August 13. The Facebook page, Captain Seagull, claimed that an internal coup had occurred in Naypyitaw, ousting Min Aung Hlaing. This rumor was initially received positively by both military supporters and pro-resistance groups. Military supporters view Min Aung Hlaing as weak, while pro-resistance groups see him as the primary antagonist since the 2021 coup. However, the junta dismissed these rumors as false, attributing them to fake accounts aimed at destabilizing the country. They confirmed that military officials, including General Min Aung Hlaing, are continuing their duties as usual.
- Junta promoted three Generals amid coup rumors
The junta reportedly promoted three Lieutenant Generals—Aung Lin Dwe, Ye Win Oo, and Nyo Saw—to the rank of General amid rumors of an internal military coup. Lt. Gen. Aung Lin Dwe, the Secretary of the State Administration Council (SAC), retains his position. Lt. Gen. Ye Win Oo, the Joint Secretary of the SAC, also received a promotion. His influential role in the regime’s decision-making process is expected to grow. Lt. Gen. Nyo Saw, a senior advisor to the junta leader and the Department of Ministers and Cabinet, was also elevated. The timing of these promotions amid coup rumors raises concerns about potential instability within the military.
- Junta blocked PV passport holders from leaving country
On August 15, the regime announced that it is preventing individuals with visiting passports (PV passports) from leaving the country at airports and border gates if they have work visas issued by foreign embassies. According to the Ministry of Labor, the restrictions are in place to ensure that workers going abroad with PV passports are not avoiding registration and tax obligations. In contrast, those with PJ passports, who are officially registered as workers with the military council, are subject to strict regulations. These regulations include paying taxes on their salaries to the regime and remitting 25 percent of their earnings domestically at a rate set by the junta-controlled banking system. This measure ensures that the junta retains financial control over workers’ earnings abroad.
- Auction of DASSK’s family mansion failed again
The regime’s second attempt to auction off the family mansion of ousted leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi failed on August 15, as no buyers showed up. The colonial-style home near Yangon’s Inya Lake, a symbol of Myanmar’s struggle for democracy, had been put up for sale to resolve a longstanding dispute between the state counselor and her elder brother, Aung San Oo. In 2019, Aung San Oo successfully petitioned the court to sell the property and share the proceeds. Despite reducing the floor price from 315 billion kyat (US$96.9 million) to 300 billion kyat (US$92.3 million) after a failed auction in March, there were no bidders again. The Lady spent 15 years under house arrest at this mansion until her release in 2010. The residence also hosted several world leaders, including former U.S. President Barack Obama, after her release.
International Affairs
- IIMM released annual report, highlighted escalation of regime’s atrocities
The Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) released its Annual Report on August 13, 2024, detailing a significant escalation in brutal atrocities committed by the Myanmar military between July 2023 and June 2024. The report highlights a disturbing increase in war crimes and crimes against humanity, including aerial attacks on non-military targets such as schools and hospitals, as well as extreme acts of violence like beheadings and mutilations of detainees. The report also documents widespread unlawful imprisonment and torture, including arbitrary detention, unfair trials, and severe physical abuse. Sexual violence, including gang rape and other gender-based crimes, has been reported, affecting individuals of all ages, including children.
- Chinese Foreign Minister met with Min Aung Hlaing & Than Shwe
On August 14, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with the regime leader, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, in Naypyidaw, reaffirming Beijing’s backing of the military regime. During their closed-door talks, Wang reportedly expressed China’s commitment to Myanmar’s stability and development and praised Myanmar’s support for China’s sovereignty claim over Taiwan. The Chinese Minister reportedly showed support for the regime’s planning of the election in the coming year and promised to assist with conducting census. Wang also met with former Myanmar military leader Senior Gen. Than Shwe, who thanked China for its longstanding support and requested continued assistance to prevent external interference and maintain internal stability.
- US State Counselor met with NUG & co, reaffirmed support
On August 16, 2024, U.S. Department of State Counselor Tom Sullivan and U.S. Agency for International Development Assistant Administrator Michael Schiffer held a virtual meeting with key members of Myanmar’s opposition movement, including the National Unity Government (NUG) led by interim President Duwa Lashila, the National Unity Consultative Council (NUCC), and resistance groups like the Karen National Union (KNU), Karenni National Progressive Party (KNPP), and Chin National Front (CNF). Sullivan and Schiffer commended the groups for their collaborative efforts toward establishing an inclusive federal democratic Myanmar. They reiterated the U.S. commitment to expanding direct support to strengthen the pro-democracy actors’ capacity to provide essential services and aid. The officials emphasized ongoing U.S. efforts to maintain pressure on the military regime and promote accountability for human rights abuses.
Business Matters
- Regime targets border trade to curb ethnic armed groups’ power
The Nay Pyi Taw Anti-Illegal Trade Special Team reported that deputy regime leader Soe Win has ordered a crackdown on trade through border gates and other channels controlled by ethnic armed groups. Following the junta’s loss of control over several border gates, there is an intensified effort to halt the flow of goods and reduce the income and resources available to these groups. The regime is concerned that uninterrupted border trade could strengthen the ethnic armed groups financially, enhancing their capacity to acquire weapons and increase their power.
- Singapore’s Sembcorp suspended power plant in Mandalay Region
On August 12, 2024, Sembcorp Industries, backed by Singaporean investment firm Temasek, announced the temporary suspension of operations at its Myingyan Independent Power Plant in Mandalay, Myanmar. The halt was prompted by escalating civil unrest in the region, including the area around the 225 megawatt (MW) gas-fired power plant. Sembcorp stated that it plans to resume operations as soon as conditions are deemed safe. The decision reflects growing concerns over the security situation affecting the plant’s operations.
- CBM revised interest rates amid economic challenges
On August 14, 2024, the Central Bank of Myanmar (CBM), under junta control, announced a revision in interest rates aimed at tackling inflation, improving deposit returns, and stimulating economic growth. The new rates, effective September 1, 2024, will see deposit interest rates rise from 7% to 9%, while loan rates will be set at a maximum of 15%. Banks are mandated to offer deposit and loan rates within this range, based on their profitability and risk management. Financial experts suggest that the increased deposit rates might help control inflation and stabilize the Myanmar currency, though they may also reduce consumer spending. The higher loan rates are expected to create additional challenges for businesses, potentially increasing financial burdens.
- Chinese investment projects falling out of regime’s control
The Shan-Mann operation, launched by resistance forces as part of the second wave of Operation 1027, has led to the capture of Chinese border towns in northern Shan State and extended towards Mandalay in central Myanmar. This offensive has put many Chinese projects across the country under the control of these forces. As a result, further negotiations will be necessary with the new area controllers regarding the future of Chinese investment projects in the region. During a recent visit, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi requested Myanmar’s military leader, Min Aung Hlaing, to protect Chinese businesses in the region. However, military and economic analysts report that the regime, which has lost significant territory near the Myanmar-China border—a crucial area for trade and commerce—is struggling to protect Chinese interests.
Humanitarian Affairs
- Regime’s airstrikes forced thousands to flee Depayin tsp, Sagaing Region
On August 17, 2024, Depayin township and its surroundings were subjected to intense bombardment and airstrikes by the regime’s army. The assault began early in the morning and included multiple air raids by Yak-130 jet fighters and Mi-35 helicopters, with the first attacks occurring at 7:35 a.m. and continuing through the day with additional strikes at 8:57 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Air strikes were also conducted from Monywa camp at 9:47 a.m. In addition to the bombings, the army’s Y-12 plane dropped food and munitions to their forces stationed in Depayin. The ongoing violence has caused tens of thousands of residents to flee, with over 1,000 people still displaced after three days of continuous airstrikes.
- Over 10,000 residents fled Natogyi Township, Mandalay Region amid conflicts
As of August 11, 2024, more than 10,000 residents have been forced to flee their homes in Natogyi, Mandalay, following intense clashes between the People’s Defense Forces and the regime army. The fighting, which erupted after the defense forces attacked a regime camp, saw the army conduct at least eight airstrikes on the town. Reports indicate that both sides sustained injuries and several buildings were damaged during the conflict. The defense forces also successfully captured a regime camp near the natural gas pipeline to China, located about one mile east of Natogyi. Natogyi, situated roughly 80 miles from Mandalay, comprises eight wards and an extended ward. With the town’s population of over 20,000, more than half of its residents have now evacuated.
- Around 500 displaced villagers faced shortage of food in Yenanchaung tsp, Magway Region
As of August 14, 2024, approximately 500 residents from the villages of Shwetokkan and Wayo in Yenanchaung township, Magway Region, have fled their homes due to fierce fighting between the regime army and Local Defense Forces. The clashes began on August 12 near Shwetokkan, where a regime column of around 40 soldiers engaged with the defense forces. The villagers, who are now sheltering in the jungle approximately 15 miles from Yenanchaung, are facing severe food shortages. Forced to flee abruptly, they were unable to bring supplies with them and are currently hiding in the forests.
- Resumed military action displaced over 10,000 people in Ye-U tsp, Sagaing Region
As of August 15, 2024, more than 10,000 residents from 12 villages in Ye Oo Township, Sagaing Region have fled their homes following resumed military activity. Early this morning, around 4:00 a.m., a column of nearly 80 soldiers departed from Ye Oo town, prompting mass evacuations by local residents seeking safety. Since August 12, the military has been reinforcing its presence in Ye Oo by airlifting weapons and troops, and conducting airstrikes on nearby villages.
Attacks on the Junta’s Lackeys & Assets
- Village administrator shot and killed in Kyaukse tsp, Mandalay Region
On August 14, 2024, at around 7:00 p.m., Tin Hlaing, a district administrative member in Kyaukse Township, Mandalay Region was shot and killed by resistance forces. Tin Hlaing had been accused of torturing residents in Nyaungwun Village, forcibly recruiting new soldiers, and extorting money under the guise of organizing the village electricity committee. Tin Hlaing alleged appointed another man as the village administrator so he could run the show behind the scene without any risks. The attack was carried out by the Kyaukse Township Revolutionary Army (KRA) and the Kyaukse KDDF. Reports indicate that Tin Hlaing’s son was injured in the confrontation.
- Regime’s patrol train derailed after landmine explosion on Yangon-Mandalay Railway
On August 15, 2024, at 1:15 a.m., a regime’s security patrol train derailed after hitting a landmine on the Yangon-Mandalay railway section in Phyu Township, Bago Region. The train, which was transporting weapons and military equipment for the regime’s military council, was attacked at milepost No. 132 between Nyaungpintha and Phyu Station. The explosion caused significant damage to the railways, leading to a temporary suspension of train services. In response, the regime has increased security measures along the affected railway section.
- Village administrator killed in Pyay District, Bago Region
On August 15, 2024, Tint Lwin, the village administrator of Thityaungpyan in Paukkaung Township, Bago Region, was shot and killed by resistance forces. The shooting occurred at 3:45 p.m., and Tint Lwin, who was actively recruiting new soldiers for the regime and coercing funds from the public under the guise of supporting military personnel, was struck by bullets in the head and chest and died on the spot. Tint Lwin had been forcibly conscripting recruits and collecting money from villagers for the regime. In response to his death, the Pyay District People’s forces issued a warning to ward and village administrators in the district, advising them to resign promptly to avoid facing similar consequences.
- Ward administrator injured during arrest by soldiers in Hlaingthaya tsp, Yangon
On August 16, 2024, Thant Zin, the administrator of Ward 20 in Hlaingthaya Township, Yangon, was shot and injured during an army raid aimed at his arrest. The incident took place in the afternoon when soldiers invaded his residence. Thant Zin was hit by three bullets but survived due to the inaccuracy of the shots. Despite attempting to defend himself with a revolver, Thant Zin’s weapon misfired, preventing any return fire. After being injured, he was arrested and taken to a hospital for medical treatment. The administrator is sought by the regime for allegedly fleeing military service.
Arbitrary Arrests, Killings & Violence
- Japanese executive of Aeon Orange released same day after rice pricing conviction
Hiroshi Kasamatsu, a Japanese business executive and director of Myanmar’s Aeon Orange supermarket, was released on August 12, 2024, after spending over a month in detention. He had been arrested on June 30 for violating rice pricing regulations by selling rice above official rates. Kasamatsu was sentenced to one year in prison and fined approximately $150 for breaching laws on daily necessities and services. He was released immediately after his sentencing. Kasamatsu was among several foreign executives arrested in Myanmar under similar allegations.
- Regime’s artillery killed 11 people in a market in Monywa tsp, Mandalay Region
On August 13, 2024, regime troops opened fire on a rural market in Htanaungtaw Village, Monywa Township, Sagaing Region, resulting in the deaths of 11 people, including one child. The attack occurred during the morning rush hour when regime forces at the entrance gate of Monywa town targeted the market with heavy weapons.
According to local reports, two people were killed instantly, six others died at an emergency clinic after being transported, and three more succumbed to their injuries in a hospital. The victims were Daw Htay Myint, aged 50, Daw Myint Myint Soe, Daw Mar Mar Htay, Daw Ei Ei Maw, Daw Yin Htay, U Tun Win, all aged over 40, Ko Lin, Ma Khine Shwe Wah, both in their 30s, Ko Naing Ko Khant, aged 23, Ma Lone Lone and Ma Htet Shwe Sin, aged 14. All of them were civilians, who came to the market to buy food/groceries.
- Two men killed by military-sponsored Black Devil Squad in Paukkaung tsp, Bago Region
On August 13, 2024, two men were killed by the Black Devil Squad in Paukkaung Township, Pyay District, Bago Region. The victims, both in their 30s and from Shwe Gu Village and Dala Mae Village in Paukkaung Township, were accused of being members of the PDF. Their bodies were found with Black Devil Squad cards hanging around their necks. One of the victims had been previously arrested over a motorcycle license issue. The Squad, which includes members of the Pyusawhtee group and is supported by police and military forces, has been responsible for around seven killings in western Bago. The squad targets individuals accused of being associated with the PDF or perceived as opposing the regime.
- Political prisoners tortured and extorted in Myaungmya and Daik-U prisons
Political prisoners in Myaungmya Prison, Ayeyarwaddy Region, have been subjected to severe beatings and torture by prison authorities and convict lackeys since last July, according to a statement from PPNM on August 13, 2024. The prisoners, including dormitory leaders, were beaten and forced into labor. Additionally, political prisoners are being extorted for money and beaten if they refuse to pay.Myaungmya Prison houses approximately 250 political prisoners, including those accused of being part of the PDF. Similar abuses are reported in Daik-U Prison, Bago Region, where authorities demand money from political prisoners and resort to violence against those who cannot pay.
- Airstrike on Christian Church killed 11, including children in Kyatetali, Rakhine State
On August 15, 2024, an airstrike by the regime targeted a Christian church in Kyatetali Town, Gwa Township, Rakhine State resulting in the deaths of 11 people, including children. The victims, nine of whom were Chins and two Arakans, were refugees who had gathered at the church for safety. The following day, August 16, Kyatetali Hospital was also damaged by further aerial bombardments. The attacks came after the capture of two military camps and a township police station in Kyatetali by the Arakan Army (AA) on August 14, following an offensive launched on August 12. Residents reported that most of the town’s population had fled prior to the fighting, leaving only a few remaining in the area.
- Over 140 men abducted for military service near Mandalay
On August 16, 2024, more than 140 men were abducted from a military checkpoint in Tada-U, a town about ten miles from Mandalay, to be forcibly recruited into the military. Starting around 7 a.m., soldiers at the checkpoint on Tada-U-Myotha Road began interrogating pedestrians, targeting young men for arrest. Many of those detained were local workers, including masons who had traveled from Mandalay. The detainees were initially taken to the General Administration Department office in Tada-U for verification against military service lists. While some were released after failing to meet recruitment criteria, the exact number of those still held remains unclear.
Armed Resistance
- NUG troops captured second town in Shan-Man Operation
On August 12, 2024, National Unity Government (NUG) troops successfully captured Takaung, a town located about 100 miles north of Mandalay, marking it the second town secured during the Shan-Man operation. The resistance forces initiated their attack on August 11th and took full control of Takaung the following day, as reported by the Thabeikkyin Township PDF. During the battle, the NUG forces captured more than 20 prisoners of war and seized over 30 weapons. Prior to this, NUG troops had captured the town of Singu, located approximately 40 miles north of Mandalay, in mid-July. Singu, situated between Takaung and Mandalay, lies on the east bank of the Irrawaddy River. Takaung, with nearly 10,000 residents, also sits on the river’s east bank.
- NUG troops closing on a third Chinese investment in Myingyan tsp, Mandalay Region
The NUG troops reportedly launched attacks on at least five locations in Taungtha Township, including the security outpost of China Oil and Natural Gas Pipeline, on the morning of August 12. The PDF have been intensifying their offensive in the central part of the country. Starting on August 10, they began attacking Natogyi, Taungtha, and Myingyan towns in Mandalay Region. The PDF reported that the outpost attacked is opposite a Chinese pipeline-related factory near Minkan village on the Taungtha-Meiktila road, where about 50 soldiers are stationed. The battalion commander of PDF’s No. (3) Myeng Farm Battalion stated that the battle was fierce when they stormed the outpost and they were careful not to impact the pipeline operations. This has become a third Chinese investment project on verge of falling under the control of PDF. On July 16, approximately 20 miles north of Mandalay, the PDF took control of the Alpha Cement factory, a Chinese-invested operation near Mattaya city. Additionally, at the end of July, the Takkaung nickel factory, a Chinese-owned mining company with an investment of US$ 855 million, was seized in Tigyaing Township, Sagaing Region.
- Junta regrouped military headquarters in Mongyai, in place of fallen Lashio
Following the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army’s (MNDAA) successful attack and capture of the Northeast Regional Headquarters in Lashio, the regime is regrouping and establishing a new regional military headquarters in Mongyai, a small town located about 40 miles southeast of Lashio. General Myint Kyaw Tun, the second chief of military training, has been appointed as the new commander to oversee operations at the newly established headquarters. This decision comes after two regional commanders were replaced in July during the intense MNDAA assault on the Northeast Regional Command. Mongyai, now the site of the Northeast Military Command’s headquarters, is a small town characterized by slow development.
- Regime’s forces bombed villages in Yesagyo tsp, Magway Region amid intense fighting
On August 14, the junta’s air force bombed areas of ongoing conflict in Yesagyo Township, Magway Region, where fighting had persisted for two weeks. The clashes began on July 30 when over 50 Pyusawhtee members and army soldiers based in Hin Tha village, near the Pakokku-Pakhangyi highway, raided Koyin village, leading to prolonged battles. The airstrike came after the military suffered significant casualties and defeats. Local resistance forces reported that their defense efforts resulted in the death of an officer near Korinywa Island, prompting the airstrike. The planes targeted Koyin and Nhaungba villages. Although there were no reported casualties among the PDF, the junta’s side experienced further injuries and deaths, forcing them to retreat. Despite the air force’s involvement, local resistance forces continued to confront and resist the junta’s advances.
- KIA & co seized regime’s station in Hpakant tsp, Kachin State
Kachin Independence Army (KIA) spokesman Colonel Naw Bu reported that the junta’s La Maung Camp Hill, located about 7 miles west of Hpakant Town, the jade capital of Kachin State, was captured on the morning of August 15. The attack on La Maung military base, which is built on the highest ground near Hpakant and plays a crucial role in the region’s military operations, began before dawn and was successfully captured within a day. This camp was supposed to provide security to Hpakant. The Kachin KPDF joined the KIA in the battle. The joint forces are now continuing their offensive on another military base, Tawmhaw Camp Hill, about 12 miles north of Hpakant.
- PDF captured Depayin tsp, Sagaing Region
Resistance forces have attacked and taken control of regime and Pyusawhtee deployment sites in Depayin Township, Sagaing Region on August 18. During the attack and capture, the junta’s reinforcement column from Ye-U town was effectively blocked by the resistance forces of Ye-U and Depayin PDF. It is understood that members of the regime and Pyusawhtee fled. Additionally, a total of 123 individuals surrendered, including 2 Pyusawhtee members, 41 non-CDM employees, and 80 family members of non-CDM employees. All are reported to be well taken care of. Fighting between the remaining junta forces and the resistance continues. Reinforcements have been deployed in Aungchantha village. Currently, junta troops are deploying reinforcements via helicopters and conducting airstrikes.
Sources: Myanmar Now, Khit Thit Media, RFA Burmese, DVB, Irrawaddy, Mizzima News, Chindwin News, Reuters, IIMM, U.S. Department of State, Bangkok Post
