Internal Politics
- The regime’s new security plan began in three townships in Mandalay
Residents in Mandalay report that the regime has begun implementing a new “public security system,” requiring men aged 35 to 60 to stand guard in their neighborhoods. Under this plan, 30 men from each ward are being gathered to take part in security duties. This initiative follows the establishment of the Public Security and Counter-Terrorism Central Supervision Group on August 16 and is not governed by the conscription laws used to recruit soldiers. The plan was swiftly put into action after General Min Aung Hlaing’s visit to Mandalay on August 25, where he ordered its implementation. The system is already being enforced in neighborhoods within Maha Aung Myay, Chan Aye Thar San, and Chan Mya Thar San Townships. A total of 30 men from each ward are expected to guard local administrative offices, and there are reports that security guard houses will be built on the streets. However, the authorities have not provided detailed information about these new security measures.
- TNLA seeks to form joint administration in 2025
Major General Tar Hpone Kyaw, General Secretary of the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), announced plans to form an interim revolutionary government in 2025. This government aims to collaborate with both the TNLA and civilians to jointly manage administrative activities. During a public meeting on August 27 in Kyaukme, Mogok and Mongmit cities, Major General Tar Hpone Kyaw invited members of the non-violent Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) to participate in administrative roles in TNLA-occupied cities and work together with the TNLA. He emphasized the importance of ensuring basic public services, such as education, healthcare, transportation, and electricity, as quickly as possible. In the second phase of Operation 1027, which resumed on June 25, the combined forces of TNLA and the People’s Defense Force (PDF) successfully captured several townships, including Naungcho, Kyaukme, Hsipaw, Mogok, and Mongmit.
- Resistance forces capture Thabeik Kyin
On August 25, revolutionary forces under the National Unity Government (NUG) captured Thabeik Kyin, a renowned gold mining town located over 80 miles from Mandalay. Following their capture of Singu Town, NUG forces, along with their allies, launched continuous attacks on the regime’s positions in Thabeik Kyin Township. The offensive began on August 17, and within two days, resistance forces had taken control of the town. However, they continued to target the retreating military council troops, ultimately securing the entire town by the morning of August 25. The NUG forces comprised battalions from Pyin Oo Lwin, Mandalay, Shwe Bo, and Kanbalu districts, and they targeted joint forces of the Military Council’s No. 13 Advanced Training School, the Science and Research Technology Corps, and the police in Thabeik Kyin Township.
- The regime announced doubling the electricity rate
On August 30, the regime announced that it would double electricity rates due to the collapsing economy and rising commodity prices over three years since the coup. For household electricity meters, rates will now be 50 kyats per unit for the first 50 units, increasing to 300 kyats per unit for consumption over 201 units. Previously, the maximum charge was only 125 kyats. For industries, businesses, foreign embassies, and international organizations, rates will start at 250 kyats per unit for the first 5,000 units. For consumption between 5,001 and 20,000 units, the rate will rise to 400 kyats per unit, and for usage above 20,001 units, it will reach 500 kyats per unit. The previous maximum rate was 180 kyats. The new rates will take effect on September 1, with payments due by the end of the month. The military council cited increased electricity production costs as the reason for the hike.
International Affairs
- China warned TNLA to halt offensives against the military regime
A spokesperson for the TNLA confirmed to Myanmar Now that the Chinese government issued a warning on August 29, urging the TNLA to cease its attacks on the regime. During two rounds of Operation 1027, the TNLA captured ten towns in northern Shan State and the town of Mogok in Mandalay Region from the regime. The Chinese warning was sent when TNLA forces advanced to Naung Cho, about 35 miles from Pyin Oo Lwin, a significant military training hub. The warning came over two weeks after a meeting between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Myanmar’s military leaders in Nay Pyi Taw. During the meeting on August 14, Wang Yi expressed support for the military council’s planned election and opposed attacks by ethnic armed groups, including the TNLA, on towns and villages in northern Shan State. Two days after this meeting, Wang Yi further stated in Thailand that China does not accept the idea of a civil war in Myanmar. The letter from China’s Shweli City State Security Committee, dated August 29 and circulating on social media, called for an immediate cessation of hostilities by the TNLA, emphasizing China’s desire to maintain stability along the China-Myanmar border. The notice was issued in both Chinese and Burmese languages. The National Unity Consultative Council (NUCC) condemned the letter and urged China to respect Myanmar’s sovereignty.
- China to conduct military training near the Myanmar border
According to an AP news report on August 26, the Chinese military has been conducting armed patrols near the Myanmar border. The commander of China’s Southern Military Region stated that troops have been deployed to the Yunnan border to maintain stability in the area. The Yunnan state government announced that military exercises will take place in four locations, including Shweli city and will involve fully armed troops testing their mobility and rapid response capabilities. China’s Southern Military Region also mentioned that the exercises would include joint training with the Air Force. China’s Ministry of Defense’s announcement emphasized the importance of maintaining stability along the Yunnan border. Political analyst U Than Soe Naing told RFA that these operations are a response to Western interests and the conflict in Myanmar. He noted that it is unusual for China to conduct military exercises along its border with Myanmar, as such activities are typically focused on the South China Sea.
- The regime uses French-made planes to commit war crimes: JFM revealed
Justice For Myanmar (JFM) announced on August 29 that the Myanmar military had purchased at least ten French-made ATR passenger planes since 2013 and is using them in areas where war crimes are allegedly being committed. These planes are reportedly used to transport soldiers and military equipment, as well as for aerial surveillance and reconnaissance missions. According to JFM, several international companies, including France’s ATR, Sabena Technics, Australia’s Axis Flight Simulation Systems, and various European Union-based firms, have provided support for the military council’s use of these aircraft. Local companies like 24 Hour Group, KT Group, Gateway Group, and Htoo Group are also involved, offering services such as aircraft part repairs, spare parts sales, and pilot training. The report claims that these international and local companies assist the military council by repairing aircraft parts, selling spare parts, and providing pilot training, thus enabling the continued use of ATR planes. Local companies are allegedly involved in purchasing these planes nominally, acting as brokers, and facilitating lease agreements to generate income for the military council.
- CSOs urge ASEAN to exclude the Myanmar military from Defense Chiefs’ meeting
On August 28, 122 civil organizations sent an open letter to ASEAN, urging that the Myanmar military be barred from the 21st ASEAN Defense Chiefs’ Meeting in Vientiane, Laos from September 4-7. They also called for the National Unity Government (NUG), which represents the Myanmar people, to be allowed to attend the meeting. The letter, signed by 112 local and international civil society organizations, requests that democratically elected leaders of the NUG be permitted to represent Myanmar. They demand that representatives of the military regime, which has unlawfully taken over Myanmar’s government institutions, be excluded from the meeting and all future ASEAN Ministerial Meetings on Transnational Crime (AMMTC). The signatories urge ASEAN member states supporting Myanmar’s democracy to boycott the current and future meetings until the military representatives are removed. The civil groups argue that the Myanmar military lacks legitimacy and does not represent the Myanmar people at ASEAN forums.
Business Matters
- China closes Namtit Gate amid Northern Shan State Conflict
Since August 24, China has closed the Namtit Gate, a key border crossing in northern Shan State controlled by the UWSA, halting the transportation of goods including rice, oil, foodstuffs, and other products. Among the four border gates in the “Wa” region, only this gate, located near Chin Shwe Hao in the Kokang region has been closed down. A political analyst in Shan State suggests that the closure may be related to ongoing conflicts in the northern Shan region, with China possibly aiming to prevent support through the “Wa” side.
- Regime imposed restriction on import of medicines
Starting September 1, Myanmar will impose new restrictions on all imports, including foreign medicines, due to a shortage of foreign currency. Import licenses will now be granted only upon submission of export earnings. A notification from the Ministry of Economy and Commerce to the Pharmaceutical Traders Association reveals that licenses applied for through Trade Net 2.0 will be canceled. Additionally, import license applications submitted until August, worth $103.822 million from 116 pharmaceutical companies, must be resubmitted under the new policy. This system change may lead to a reduced supply of drugs in the market, according to a local pharmaceutical employee.
- Fuel price surged again in Yangon amid shortages
On August 30, fuel prices in Yangon experienced a significant increase. The price of 92 octane gasoline rose to 3,100 kyats per liter, up by 125 kyats from the previous day, while 95 octane gasoline also climbed to 3,240 kyats per liter, reflecting a 125 kyats increase. Diesel (regular) saw a rise to 2,655 kyats per liter, an increase of 45 kyats, and premium diesel went up to 3,295 kyats per liter, 95 kyats higher than the previous day. Despite these price hikes, some fuel types remain in short supply at local fuel shops.
- Fuel quality concerns rise due to the regime’s forced sale of domestic gasoline
The junta is selling 100,000 gallons of gasoline per month from the Mann Thanbayakan Oil Refinery in Minhla Township to fuel stores at approximately 11,000 kyats per gallon. This gasoline, which is produced locally, will be distributed to gas stations in Magway and Nay Pyi Taw regions through SME gas stations. Gas stations must purchase the gasoline directly from the refinery and obtain a transport certificate. Once delivered, the gasoline will be sold with a price markup and displayed with a sign indicating its origin. The quality of the gasoline is reportedly compromised due to the mixing of domestically produced oil.
Humanitarian Affairs
- Thailand detained over 155,000 undocumented Myanmar workers amid crackdown
On August 24, Thailand’s Ministry of Labor reported that from June 5 to August 22, more than 155,669 undocumented Myanmar workers were detained as part of a 78-day crackdown. As part of a broader 120-day plan, over 200,000 undocumented workers have been arrested, with more than 150,000 being Myanmar nationals. The crackdown also includes undocumented workers from Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, and other countries. Arrested workers, including 914 Myanmar nationals and over 500 others, face deportation and a two-year ban from re-entering Thailand. This situation is particularly concerning given the current political instability in Myanmar.
- Myanmar prisoners in Imphal Prison, Manipur continued hunger strike amid deportation concerns
Myanmar prisoners at Imphal prison in Manipur State have been on a hunger strike for over ten days, protesting their potential deportation back to Myanmar and demanding their release. The prisoners fear being handed over to the Myanmar regime after serving their sentences. Reports indicate that prison authorities have used excessive force, including sound bombs, rubber bullets, and firearms, to quell the protest. BRCK, a rights group, has urged the Indian and Manipur governments to ensure the safety of the Burmese prisoners and allow them to remain temporarily in border areas until they can safely return to Myanmar. Currently, 97 men and 44 women—totaling 141 Myanmar residents—are held in Imphal prison, most of whom have completed their sentences but remain incarcerated under immigration laws.
- Refugees in Karenni State struggle with food and medicine shortages
As of August 30, over 20,000 war refugees in Karenni State are experiencing severe shortages of food and medicine. Refugees in the western parts of Demoso and Hpruso Townships, where the refugee population is particularly high, are facing critical food shortages due to prolonged displacement from conflict. Limited international aid and a blockade by the regime have exacerbated the situation, driving up prices and making it difficult to purchase essentials. Currently, civil society organizations can only provide emergency rice to address the immediate needs of the refugees.
- Food shortages intensifies for displaced people in Mingin tsp, Sagaing Region
Relief workers have reported that around 7,000 war refugees who fled from Mingin Township are facing critical food shortages. Residents from at least five villages—Kan Ywar, Kule Ywar, Kyaukkae Ywar, Myayni Ywar, and Waye Ywar—have been displaced since early 2023. Refugees are now living in conflict-free areas without income, struggling to find work, particularly in farming. The lack of income and unsafe shelters have led to worsening poverty and health issues among these displaced individuals.
- Skin disease outbreak hits refugee camp in Rakhine State
Since August 20, refugees at a war-torn camp in Ponnagyun Township, Rakhine State, have been suffering from severe skin diseases, with 71 reported cases. The outbreak is attributed to a lack of soap for personal hygiene, leading to widespread rashes, skin irritation, and peeling. The situation is exacerbated by a lack of funds for medical treatment and basic necessities. The camp, home to 170 families (totaling 904 people), faces dire conditions with insufficient food, water, and medical care. Both children and adults are affected by the skin disease, and the inability to access proper hygiene products and medical treatment has worsened the situation.
Attacks on the Junta’s Lackeys & Assets
- KIA & co freed 16 prisoners in raid on Indaw Police Station, Sagaing Region
On August 24, the Kachin Indepence Army (KIA) and allied forces raided the police station in Indaw, Upper Sagaing Region, successfully freeing 16 prisoners. Heavy fighting ensued in the town, leading to the retreat of regime troops and police, which allowed the raiders to liberate the detainees. However, political prisoners had already been transferred from Indaw to Katha Prison by the regime about six months prior. The freed individuals may have been initially detained at the Indaw Town checkpoint on suspicion.
- Village administrator shot dead in Bago Region for regime recruitment and extortion
On August 25, Yan Aung Soe, the administrator of Khao Kho Village in Gyobingauk Township, Bago Region, was shot and killed by local resistance forces. The attack was reportedly in response to Soe’s efforts to forcibly recruit individuals for the regime army and his involvement in extorting 20,000,000 Myanmar kyats from village groups as tax for the regime. The administrator’s repeated demands for recruitment and extortion led to his dismissal, according to those who carried out the mission.
- Grenade attack on Tamwe tsp, left three dead and one injured
On August 28, at approximately 2:40 pm, a grenade attack on the police station in Tamwe Township, Yangon, resulted in the deaths of three policemen and left one seriously injured. The attack was part of the “Cheetah Operation,” with the attackers successfully withdrawing without harm. Following the assault, the junta troops surrounded the police station with green tarpaulins and transported the bodies of the deceased officers in police vehicles. Police sources have confirmed that a grenade was used in the attack.
- Missile attack on military outpost destroyed vehicles and injured soldiers in Thantaunggyi tsp, Karen State
On August 28 at 3:44 pm, the 603rd Central Outpost of the regime military in Thantaunggyi Township, Karen State, was targeted with electric missiles. The attack, which involved two 114 mm missiles, struck the outpost’s food and vehicle garages, resulting in the destruction of three vehicles by fire. The explosion also caused injuries to eight members of the regime forces.
Arbitrary Arrests, Killings & Violence
- Video shows regime troops urging rape during raid in Magway Region
A disturbing video has surfaced showing regime troops and subordinate militiamen patrolling a village in Gantgaw Township, Magway Region, encouraging each other to rape women in the area. The video, which emerged on a military propaganda Telegram channel on August 28, is claimed to show regime forces and militia wiping out resistance groups in northern Gantgaw Township. Locals believe the footage may have been filmed near Shwebo Village, close to Myauk Khinyan Village, where regime troops and Pyu Saw Htee members are heavily entrenched.
- Nearly 50 youths arrested in Yangon and Mandalay amid conscription concerns
Between August 25 and 29, nearly 30 young people aged 19 to 30 were arrested in several townships across Yangon, including Dawpon, South Dagon, Kyimyindaing, Alone, North Okkalapa, Thanlyin, and Insein. Most arrests took place at night at bus stops and on neighborhood streets. In Mandalay Region, locals reported that around 20 young men were detained in Tada-U and Pyigyitakkon townships on August 27 and 28, allegedly for military enlistment. The names and details of the arrested youths remain unknown.
- Regime troops tortured and killed four men, and burned down 170 houses in Kantbalu tsp, Sagaing Region
On August 25, around 100 soldiers raided the village of U Kin Kyi in Kantbalu Township, Sagaing Region, resulting in the deaths of several civilians, including a mentally ill person. The raid, which occurred early in the morning, led to the arrest of five male villagers aged 20 to 50, four of whom were later killed. The bodies of victims, aged 30 to 40, were found in the southwest of the village later that evening. They had been brutally stabbed in the ribs and shot after the soldiers set fire to over 170 houses in the village.
- Two journalists sentenced to life and 20-year terms in Myeik, Tanintharyi Region
On August 27, it was reported that two journalists from Dawei Watch, a news agency based in Tanintharyi Region, were sentenced to life imprisonment and long-term prison terms by a military court. Journalist Ko Myo Myint Oo received a life sentence, while Ko Aung San Oo was sentenced to 20 years by the Myeik City Tribunal Court. The journalists were arrested at their homes in Myeik on December 11 of last year, accused of writing news critical of the regime. Their computers and mobile phones were confiscated, and they were reportedly beaten during a four-day interrogation. The court sentenced them under sections of the Counter-Terrorism Law.
- Junta bombed Lashio amid MNDAA control, no casualties reported
On the night of August 30, junta forces bombarded the city of Lashio, now under the control of the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, MNDAA. Residents reported that bombs were dropped around 9:00 pm, though no casualties or significant damage were confirmed. Two bombs exploded in Lashio’s 10th Ward, while another failed to detonate. Earlier this month, MNDAA forces had successfully taken over the military council’s Northeast Military Headquarters and are now working to establish local administration, including appointing ward administrators and restoring telephone and internet services.
Armed Resistance
- PDFs captured Thabeikkyin Town in Mandalay Region
On August 25, 2024, people’s defense forces (PDFs) under the NUG’s 1st Military Region Command successfully captured Thabeikkyin Town in Mandalay Region’s Thabeikkyin Township. The offensive, which began on August 17, saw the participation of 11 PDF groups. During the operation, the PDFs seized large quantities of weapons and ammunition, including 18,669 rounds, 42 grenades, and 36 RPGs. A senior junta officer, Lieutenant Colonel Soe Min Thu, was also captured. While four PDF fighters were killed, junta casualties remain undisclosed. Thabeikkyin had been a key junta military hub, hosting Basic Military Training Depot 2 and multiple battalions. Junta air forces responded by dropping over 320 bombs during the battle.
- Intense fighting occurred in Kachin State as regime counterattacked Momauk
Since August 24, fierce daily fighting has broken out in Kachin State, as regime forces launch counterattacks on Momauk and Mansi Townships from Banmaw. After the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), Kachin People’s Defense Force (KPDF), and Arakan Army (AA) captured Momauk on August 19 following a month-long offensive, the regime has responded with significant force. Colonel Nawbu, head of KIA information, confirmed that clashes are occurring frequently, with fighting concentrated 5 to 6 miles between Banmaw and Momauk.
- PDF clashed with regime’s army in Bago Region, killing 30 soliders
In Letpadan Township, Bago Region, the NUG’s PDF and alliances engaged in two intense battles with regime forces within three days. On August 24 and 27, the PDF intercepted a junta convoy heading from Okposu Village towards Bago Yoma. In the first clash on August 24, PDF reports claim 10 regime soldiers were killed, with around 20 additional casualties. On August 27, the PDF ambushed the regime’s reinforcements near Myaing Village, leading to another hour-long battle. Despite the junta’s use of heavy weapons and drones, the PDF coordinated with other local forces before retreating.
- TNLA seized regime’s artillery battalions in Naungcho tsp, Shan State
On August 28, the Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA) captured two artillery battalions (206 and 406) of the regime’s forces in Taungkham Village, south of Naungcho Town. The battalions are part of the No. (902) Artillery Command Headquarters, which oversees four artillery camps. The TNLA continues to attack the remaining two battalions. In response, the regime bombed the area using Y12 aircraft, targeting the artillery headquarters and launching airstrikes on Taung Long Village near Taungkham.
- AA caused regime casualties in battle near Sittwe, Rakhine State
On August 29, a significant battle erupted between the Arakan Army (AA) and junta forces near Myit Na Village, Sittwe Township, Rakhine State, resulting in heavy casualties for the regime. The clash, which occurred around 3:00 p.m. and lasted for three hours, saw AA forces kill over 30 junta troops and seize more than 60 weapons, including machine guns. The battle took place approximately five miles from Sittwe, signaling a potential AA move towards the state’s capital. Meanwhile, regime authorities in Sittwe are trying to lure government staff from AA-controlled areas to work in the city, threatening non-payment if they refuse. Sittwe is currently blockaded by land and waterways, leaving residents trapped with limited options for escape.
Sources: Myanmar Now, Khit Thit Media, RFA Burmese, Mizzmia News, DVB, Irrawaddy
