Hi folks, on the same day we received the news of Dr. Zaw Myint Maung’s serious condition, we learned that he had passed away. Tens of thousands of people attended his funeral service, beautifully and bravely repaying his dedication to the city of Mandalay. This outpouring of support reminds us of the early days when people openly expressed their opposition to Min Aung Hlaing’s military coup. It clearly demonstrates to China and the international community that the majority of the country still views the detained leaders as their true representatives, despite the regime’s temporary control.
In this context, Min Aung Hlaing’s lackeys have intensified efforts to conduct the census process, during which several young activists have been forcibly taken away.
Read the highlights below:
Internal Politics
- Dr. Zaw Myint Maung passed away at 73
Dr. Zaw Myint Maung, one of the NLD’s top leaders, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s aide and Chief Minister of Mandalay, passed away on October 7 after the news about his critical condition broke last weekend. The military council’s order to release and pardon just hours before his death has drawn sharp criticism. Belovedly called by the people Sayar Zaw or Dr. Zaw passed away at 73 due to leukemia after being denied adequate medical care during his imprisonment. He had been serving a 29-year sentence following the 2021 military coup. Family members and NLD spokespeople condemned the lack of medical attention and the refusal to allow family visits, blaming these factors for his death. Thousands of mourners, including U.S. and international figures, attended his funeral, recognizing Dr. Zaw Myint Maung’s significant contributions to both Myanmar’s political landscape and international relations. His death is a tragic loss, underscoring the country’s ongoing struggles under military rule and the impact on its educated leaders.
- AA warned public to avoid crowds amid military airstrikes
The Arakan Army (AA) issued a warning on October 7 advising people in Rakhine State to avoid large gatherings during the upcoming Thadingyut and Ta Saung Mone festivals, citing ongoing airstrikes by the regime. The AA urged citizens not to attend events, make donations at monasteries, or use loudspeakers, as they are concerned about public safety and aim to prevent mass casualties from the bombings. On October 10, eight civilians were reportedly killed in an airstrike in Kyauk Phyu Township. In recent attacks, over 90 people, including civilians and Arakan Army prisoners, have died, with nearly 70 injured across several townships. The AA currently controls 10 out of 17 townships in Rakhine State, where fighting remains intense.
- Mandalay Region formed a committee to draft interim political plan
A 43-member Coordination and Drafting Working Committee has been established to develop an interim political plan for the Mandalay Region. Formed on October 8, the committee includes representatives from six groups, including elected parliamentarians, political parties like the National League for Democracy (NLD) and the Democratic Party for a New Society (DPNS), civil society organizations, and minority groups. U Myint Aung Moe, representing the parliamentarians, explained that the committee aims to manage administrative responsibilities in areas under revolutionary control and to create a transitional political framework for Mandalay. This plan will reduce the administrative burden on the National Unity Government (NUG) and facilitate regional governance. The initiative seeks to unite other forces in the region and set a foundation for Mandalay’s future governance during and after the transition. NUG’s Prime Minister Mann Win Khaing Than expressed confidence that the interim plan will serve as a roadmap for both the revolutionary and transitional periods in the Mandalay Region.
- NUG acting president wanted against regional interference and the sham election
Duwa Lashi La, the acting president of the NUG, criticized regional countries for supporting the military dictatorship by intervening in Myanmar’s internal affairs and backing the military council’s upcoming election. Speaking at the 27/2024 cabinet meeting on October 8, he argued that the election organized by the military regime is designed to legitimize the military coup rather than uphold democratic principles. Duwa Lashi La expressed concerns that regional countries are prioritizing stability over genuine democratic progress and are supporting a system rooted in the long-standing influence of military dictators. He warned that the military’s election is a “fake election,” serving as a tool to entrench dictatorship, and called for long-term solutions to the political crisis rather than short-term fixes. He emphasized that international research shows how dictators use elections to sustain power and that Myanmar must achieve full democracy. He also stressed the importance of thoughtful responses and visionary strategies to break the country out of its current political cycle.
- MNDAA to restrict international engagement and halt attacks on the regime
Under pressure from China, Kokang’s MNDAA (Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army) has ordered its troops to avoid military offensives against the regime’s troops and refrain from meetings with Western and ASEAN countries, including the United States. This directive, issued recently, also restricts engagement with international media and attendance at global discussions related to Myanmar. In September, the MNDAA announced it would no longer cooperate with the NUG on military and political fronts. Previously, during Operation 1027, MNDAA, alongside the Arakan Army (AA), Ta’ang Army (TNLA), and NUG’s People’s Defense Forces (PDF), captured key areas, including Lashio, from the military council. China has reportedly restricted the supply of fuel and basic goods to MNDAA- and TNLA-controlled regions in northern Shan State. Additionally, the TNLA has been warned of severe consequences if it continues to attack military council forces. Leaked transcripts suggest China is pressuring revolutionary forces to halt offensives, as it prefers the military council to remain in power.
- Thousands attended funeral of Dr Zaw Myint Maung amid tight security
On October 8, Dr. Zaw Myint Maung, the Chief Minister of Mandalay Region, was transported to Taung Inn Myauk Inn Cemetery, accompanied by tens of thousands of residents. However, the military council restricted access to the cemetery, allowing only family and close relatives inside. A resident shared that “almost the entire city came to say goodbye,” while military personnel enforced security along the procession route. Vehicles were prohibited from entering the cemetery, with only pedestrians allowed access. Increased police and military presence was reported, leading to arrests near the funeral home. A local poet praised the public’s courage, stating it symbolized political defiance. As the body was loaded onto the hearse, attendees chanted “Our cause must win,” highlighting ongoing political tensions. The poet noted that, while the military council may not recognize it as a state funeral, the public designated it as such, reflecting the resilience of the people of Mandalay.
International Affairs
- China pressured revolutionary forces to halt attacks on the Myanmar regime
NUG Deputy Foreign Minister U Moe Zaw Oo confirmed on October 8 that China has blocked Myanmar’s revolutionary forces, warning them to cease attacks on the military council. Leaked meeting minutes from an August 27 discussion in China’s Yunnan Province reveal that Chinese officials pressured the United Wa State Army (UWSA) not to sell weapons to anti-military forces and to lift the blockade on the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA). China has expressed concern over the NUG’s growing ties with Western countries and warned Wa leaders that the NUG and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s NLD party cannot replace the military, which China views as central to Myanmar’s stability. U Moe Zaw Oo emphasized that the military regime is the root cause of the country’s issues and urged neighboring countries to adopt a more accurate stance. Despite Chinese pressure, the NUG remains committed to continuing its revolution. The leaked report also indicates that China is exerting significant pressure on Kokang and Wa-controlled areas along its border, threatening to punish the UWSA if they supply arms to the Kokang Army (MNDAA) or TNLA. China has also refused to recognize MNDAA’s capture of Lashio, imposing sanctions until the offensive stops.
- ASEAN navy chiefs meeting in Myanmar draws limited key player participation
Singapore and several other ASEAN countries either did not attend or downgraded their representation at a naval chiefs’ meeting held in Nay Pyi Taw from October 10 to 12, led by the Myanmar regime. Indonesia and the Philippines sent military attaches, while Thailand and Malaysia dispatched lower-ranking officers. Myanmar’s Navy Commander-in-Chief, Lt. Gen. Htein Win led the meeting, but some countries, such as Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, sent deputy chiefs or interim leaders. Political analyst U Aung Thu Nyein noted that the absence of key naval leaders signals a political stance against the Myanmar regime. This stance highlights the continued disagreement within ASEAN over how to handle Myanmar’s military-led government, which has been condemned for human rights abuses since the 2021 coup. Despite the controversy, Myanmar will host 19 upcoming ASEAN ministerial meetings, covering topics like energy, agriculture, and tourism. Civil society groups, such as Defending Myanmar Democracy (DMD), have protested ASEAN’s decision to allow these meetings, arguing that it legitimizes the military council’s ongoing violence and repression.
- UN and US leaders urged ASEAN to pursue inclusive solutions for Myanmar conflict
During the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Laos, on October 11, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on ASEAN leaders to find an inclusive political solution to the Myanmar conflict and create a peaceful future for its people. Guterres emphasized that Myanmar’s citizens urgently need peace, with one-third of the population requiring humanitarian aid and the Rohingya crisis still far from resolution. At the same summit, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged the Myanmar military to support ASEAN’s five-point consensus aimed at resolving the conflict, which includes ending violence and engaging in dialogue with all parties. For the first time in over three years, the military council sent a high-ranking representative, Permanent Secretary U Aung Kyaw Moe, to attend the summit. This marks a significant moment in the regime’s engagement with ASEAN amidst ongoing international pressure.
- The regime rejected the UN reports misleading
On October 12, the regime issued a statement rejecting the findings of the Independent Investigation Mechanism (IIMM) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, claiming that their reports have hindered Myanmar’s development and created misunderstandings internationally. The military’s response followed discussions at the Human Rights Council meetings in Geneva, where they criticized the reports as relying on unreliable sources. The regime also stated that they have never recognized the IIMM and claimed that the reports fail to accurately portray the situation in Myanmar, particularly by downplaying the actions of armed groups such as the Arakan Army (AA) and the People’s Defense Force PDF). They accused the reports of presenting a one-sided view of the conflict and failing to consider the military’s efforts towards stability and democracy.
Business Matters
- Thai authorities seize tens of thousands of illegal Myanmar products
On October 9, labor activists in Thailand reported that authorities seized tens of thousands of illegally imported Myanmar products in Samut Sakhon District, primarily intended for Myanmar nationals. A raid on two stores yielded over 16,000 items, including food and medicine, according to the Bangkok Post. U Min Oo, a labor officer with the Education and Development Organization (FED), noted that inspections for contraband are intensifying across Thailand, leading to multiple arrests this month. He highlighted that many of these products meet food standards but lack proper labeling in Thai, raising safety concerns. Confiscated items included food products and medicinal plants, as well as beauty products. Under Thai law, selling prohibited goods can result in fines ranging from 5,000 to 30,000 baht or imprisonment for three months to three years. With a significant population of Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand, the demand for Myanmar-made products like coffee milk and ready-to-use thanakha has surged.
- MEHL partner Virginia Tobacco company liquidated
Virginia Tobacco Company Limited (VTCL), known for its Red Ruby and Premium Gold cigarette brands, has been liquidated following the 2021 takeover. Established as a joint venture between MEHL, owned by the military, and Singapore’s Rothmans Myanmar Holdings Singapore, VTCL held a 51% stake for the former and 49% for the latter. Operating since 1993, VTCL employed around 1,000 workers at its factory in Pyin Mapin Industrial Zone, Yangon Region. A board meeting on February 29 led to the decision to liquidate the company, as noted in the Myanmar Gazette on April 5. All members involved in the company agreed to the liquidation, with local accounting firm Win Consulting appointed to oversee the process. U Moe Kyaw, the vice president of the liquidation officer, stated that the liquidation is nearly complete, and assets are being distributed to shareholders. U Hla Moe, General Manager of Myanmar Business Owners Limited, declined to comment on the situation.
- The regime ordered crackdown on illegal trade to counter armed groups
A military source in Nay Pyi Taw reported that Soe Win, the deputy military leader, has mandated a crackdown on illegal trade, which is reportedly fueling the strength of armed organizations in Myanmar. This directive was issued during the 4/2024 Anti-Illegal Trade Steering Committee meeting. The regime acknowledged existing challenges, including border security weaknesses, insufficient personnel, and corruption, which have allowed armed groups to thrive through taxation on illicit trade. Soe Win emphasized that unchecked illegal trade enables these groups to purchase weapons and recruit members, thereby enhancing their capabilities. In response to a reduction in foreign currency usage and increased restrictions on imports, many essential goods are being smuggled across the borders. To combat this issue, the regime plans to intensify surveillance of trade routes, conduct searches of warehouses, and monitor markets for illegal activity.
Humanitarian Affairs
- NUG distributed over 1,222 million kyats in humanitarian aid in one month
The NUG announced on October 11 that it provided over 1,222 million kyats in humanitarian aid to more than 740,000 people affected by war and natural disasters in September 2024. The funds, collected through people-to-people donations, were distributed to those in need across various states and districts. Aid allocations included 366 million kyat for over 100,000 displaced individuals, 721.6 million kyat for natural disaster victims, 66.2 million kyat for general humanitarian aid, and 59.5 million kyat for those injured or killed in conflict. Additionally, 5.7 million kyat was provided for Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) employees, and 3.1 million kyat for political prisoners and their families. The NUG expressed pride in the resilience of the people amid ongoing crises, while a recent United Nations report highlighted the devastating impact of the Ragi storm, which caused severe flooding and affected over a million people across seventy cities.
- Transfer of Nearly 400 Political Prisoners Raises Concerns in Rakhine State
On October 8, nearly 400 political prisoners from Sittwe, Rakhine State, were transferred by military vessels to various prisons across the country. The detainees were primarily villagers from Byai Phyu village, arrested under allegations of links to the Arakan Army (AA). Residents reported that the transfers were conducted with little notice, leaving families anxious about the fate of their loved ones. The prisoners’ transfer comes in the wake of a violent raid on May 29, when military forces arrested villagers in Byai Phyu, tortured many, and resulted in over 200 individuals being sentenced to three years in prison under the Unlawful Association Law. During that raid, 76 locals were reported killed, and several women suffered sexual violence. Local residents speculate that the military’s transfer of prisoners may be a precautionary measure against potential attacks from the AA, as past conflicts have led to the release of political prisoners during military skirmishes. The situation in Rakhine State remains tense, with fears that ongoing violence and military actions will further endanger the lives of both detainees and local civilians.
- More than 10,000 residents in Butalin, Sagaing fled due to aerial attacks
On October 12, aerial bombardments by the regime in Ngapurin village, Sagaing Region, forced more than 10,000 residents to flee for safety. Reports indicate that there were four aerial bombings and five machine gun attacks in the village around 10am despite no active fighting in the area. A local resident, who wished to remain anonymous due to safety concerns, described that the Mi-35 dropped nine times on top of them without any ground troops or skirmishes which caused panic among the locals and their departure from the village.
Attacks on the Junta’s Lackeys & Assets
- Nine census workers arrested by PDF in Launglon tsp, Tanintharyi Region
Local resistance forces reported the arrest of nine female employees of the regime who were conducting a census in Launglon Township, Tanintharyi Region. On the morning of October 6, a school teacher traveling from Launglon to Dawei to assist with the census was arrested on the road. Following this, seven additional teachers and one clerk from the ward administration office were arrested at their homes. For security reasons, the names of the nine detainees have not been released. Most of the detainees were reportedly forced to work by the regime. Among those arrested, the youngest is 27 years old and the oldest is 60. The LaungLon People’s Defense Force (LLPDF) had announced on October 3 that they would take strict action against anyone participating in the census.
- Three soldiers providing security for census killed in Hpa-an tsp, Karen State
On the morning of October 10, three soldiers providing security for census workers were killed in a close-range attack in Hpa-an Township, Karen State. The vehicle transporting the soldiers near Win Sein Monastery in Zeyathiri Ward, Win Sein village, was struck by a grenade launcher (RPG). The attack was carried out by troops from the Karen National Union (KNU) Brigade 1. According to local residents, the regime is conducting a census in the area with the assistance of the police and the Border Guard Force (BGF), in a region where KNU Brigade 1 operates.
- SAC member and his secretary shot by resistance forces in Hlaing Tharyar tsp, Yangon
Kyaw Thu Win, also known as Shwe Mann, a member of the State Administrative Council (SAC) in Hlaing Tharyar Township, and his secretary were shot by resistance forces on the morning of October 13 and are reported to be seriously injured. The attack occurred around 9:00 a.m. in Ward 11, Hlaing Tharyar Township. Both were shot by soldiers from the Golden Valley Warriors and were taken to the hospital by ambulances. Kyaw Thu Win sustained three gunshot wounds, and his secretary suffered head injuries. Kyaw Thu Win had recently submitted a list of over 800 young men from Hlaing Tharyar Township to the military for mandatory training. The township has become one of the largest sources of military personnel in Yangon. Since becoming an SAC member earlier this year, Kyaw Thu Win has expanded his business, which includes ventures in the food, water, convenience store, and real estate sectors. His Shwe Mann real estate business is reported to have connections with military officers and a Chinese businessman, according to Khit Thit Media.
Arbitrary Arrests, Killings & Violence
- Regime’s airstrikes in Rakhine State killed civilians, including a child
Within two days, at least two townships in Rakhine State were struck by regime airstrikes, resulting in the deaths of several civilians, including a 6-year-old boy. On October 7, around 4:00 pm, the regime’s air force attacked Maungdaw Township, targeting Khayay Myaing Village, located just over 3 miles south of Maungdaw. The bombardment hit the village school and affected residents walking nearby. Two young men, 19-year-old Mg Aung Aung Soe and 18-year-old Mg Tun Win, were killed on the spot while riding a motorcycle, and two others were injured. Later, at 11:00 pm the same night, the regime’s forces bombarded Tanlwal Ywarma Village in Taungup Township, dropping three bombs near a monastery. This attack killed 17 civilians and left 6 more injured. All of the casualties were civilians.
- Rakhine-Myanmar singer Su Myat Htet arrested under counterterrorism act
The regime has reportedly arrested Rakhine-Myanmar singer Ma Su Myat Htet, charging her under the Counter-Terrorism Act, and she is currently being interrogated at Mayangone Township’s detention center. Ma Su Myat Htet was taken from her home in Yangon’s Tamwe Township on October 7 at 1:00 pm. by regime forces. She is now being held at an interrogation center in Mayangone Township, located near 8 Mile. The arrest was reportedly based on allegations that she was an admin of a Facebook account linked to an overseas group and had received a transfer of 4,500,000 MMK from that account. The regime has accused her of providing financial support to a terrorist organization. However, Ma Su Myat Htet has denied all the accusations and testified that she rejects the charges under the Anti-Terrorism Act, according to reliable sources.
- Regime’s airstrikes killed seven including children in Sagaing Region
On the evening of October 8, the regime’s air force launched attacks on residential areas in Ye-U and Kawlin Townships, Sagaing Region, killing seven civilians, including two children. At around 4:30 pm, an airstrike hit near the market of Teng Taintam Village, southwest of Ye-U Town, directly targeting a house. The attack killed a 6-month-old girl, her mother, and a 6-year-old boy from a nearby home. Two other residents were injured, and three houses were destroyed. There was no ground battle in the area, only a funeral ceremony taking place at the time of the attack. Earlier, at approximately 3:45 pm, an airstrike hit Koukkho Gone Village in Kawlin Township, killing two women and two men. The bombs targeted homes near a high school, and the victims were civilians, including war refugees. Three bodies were immediately recovered, while another woman’s body was found the next morning on October 9.
- Two young political activists arrested and feared for their lives in Yangon
Two young political activists were arrested by the regime on the night of October 9 in Yangon. Ko Paing Phyo Min, also known as De Yay, a leader of the Anti Junta Alliance Yangon (AJAY), was detained after a phone call with a friend around 11:00 p.m., followed by a midnight inspection at a house in Thaketa Township. On the same night, another youth activist, Ko Shein Wai Aung, was also on a phone call with a friend when contact was abruptly cut off after an army inspection team arrived at his residence. Ko Shein Wai Aung’s family members, including his father, mother, and sister, have since been unreachable, suggesting that they too may have been arrested. Ko Shein Wai Aung, a former Dagon University student, is a non-violent youth activist involved in various youth activities. In both cases, the junta used a guest list inspection as a pretext to raid. Close friends, families, and associations have called for their safety and wellbeing, due to the regime’s life-threatening interrogation methods.
- Regime’s airstrike killed 4 and injured 16 in Kyauktaw Town, Rakhine State
On the evening of October 10, the regime launched an airstrike on Kyauktaw, a town controlled by the Arakan Army (AA) in Rakhine State, killing four residents and injuring at least 16 others. Local sources reported that two bombs fell near Kyauktaw High School No. 2 and the Pyaing San Shar grinding mill near the main road. Among the dead were U Aye Kyaw, aged 43, the mill owner, U Kyaw Thein Hla, aged 53, U Maung Tun Naing, aged 45, and Ma Thandar Aye, aged 18. A local woman expressed frustration to Myanmar Now media, stating, “The regime, losing ground to the AA in Rakhine, is no longer fighting a conventional war but instead relying on airstrikes, which are harming civilians.”
- Regime’s airstrike killed 12 civilians in refugee camp in Matara tsp, Mandalay Region
On the afternoon of October 11, the Mandalay PDF reported that the regime bombed a refugee camp located at the Wawsu Village monastery in Matara Township, Mandalay Region, killing 12 civilians, including three monks and children. In addition to the fatalities, over 10 people were injured. A spokesperson from the MDY-PDF told RFA that the airstrikes were unrelated to any military operation and appeared to target civilians without cause. While active battles are ongoing in the eastern part of Matara Township, the refugee camp is located on the western side, far from the fighting.
Armed Resistance
- AA captured strategic Mae Taung Camp in Ann tsp, Rakhine State
Despite air support and heavy artillery fire from the junta, the Arakan Army (AA) successfully captured the Mae Taung Camp Hill in Ann Township, where the Western Military Headquarters is located, on October 7. The camp, situated more than 6 miles from Ann, had been under attack since September 26. A local resident reported that by 7 a.m. on the day of the camp’s capture, the sound of gunfire had ceased, despite ongoing airstrikes and heavy shooting the previous day. A significant number of regime forces were stationed at Mae Taung to protect Ann Township and the Western Military Headquarters. With the camp now under AA control, the group can easily threaten the headquarters in Ann.
- Resistance forces captured Pinlebu Town in Sagaing Region
On the morning of October 8, resistance forces, including the People’s Defense Force (PDF), the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), and local groups, successfully captured Pinlebu, a town in the upper part of Sagaing Region with a population of about 7,000. Since mid-August, these forces have been launching attacks on junta camps in and around the town. After nearly seven weeks of intense fighting, the regime troops stationed in Pinlebu surrendered to the resistance forces. Local reports indicate that during the battle, approximately 70 regime soldiers were killed, with 102 captured. Additionally, 275 soldiers remain missing, 225 were injured, and 60 are in critical condition. It is also reported that 48 soldiers surrendered to the resistance.
- Airstrikes and heaving fighting left over 30 deaths in Hsipaw tsp, Shan State
Since early August, intense fighting in Hsipaw, northern Shan State, has claimed the lives of more than 30 civilians, due to heavy weapon fire and airstrikes. The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) reported that 37 local residents were killed, with over 50 injured in the ongoing conflict. On the night of October 8, the regime’s Y-12 fighter jet dropped more than 50 bombs on Hsipaw and nearby Nam Kwong village, according to a TNLA statement. Further bombings were carried out on October 10 in Shwe Kyaung and Pan Taim Taung wards. The heavy bombardment has forced nearly 75% of Hsipaw’s population, roughly 8,500 people from 1,500 households, to flee their homes. The conflict escalated when the TNLA attacked regime forces in Hsipaw on August 9, quickly gaining control of the town. Fighting has continued, with the TNLA targeting Light Infantry Battalion 23, which responded with heavy artillery and airstrikes. In late August, a leaked letter revealed that China had pressured the TNLA to halt its offensives. While the TNLA acknowledged the pressure and refrained from expanding to new fronts, clashes with regime forces persist in Hsipaw and Naungcho.
- Resistance forces seized hotel/camp after intense battle in Kachin State
On the morning of October 8, resistance forces successfully attacked and cleared regime troops that had been stationed at the Lucky Men Hotel in Hpakant, Kachin State, for over a month. The junta’smen had occupied the hotel since September 7, leading to heavy fighting in the area.After a brief break at the end of September, fighting resumed on the evening of October 6, with bomb drones reportedly being used in the assault. The hotel has been reportedly burned. More than 20 of their troops have died. The battle was complicated by the army’s use of hostages, which made direct assaults difficult.Despite the obstacles, large weapons and many small arms were recovered from the army, and resistance forces are now pursuing the battalion commander and other soldiers who escaped during the fighting.
- KNLA & co intercepted regime reinforcements in Kawkareik tsp, Karen State
On the morning of October 11, heavy fighting erupted when the regime’s army, with over a hundred reinforcements, attempted to enter areas controlled by resistance forces in the Kawtnwe and Yaytwinphyu areas. Resistance forces intercepted the column, preventing the junta’s troops from advancing from the Kawkareik Township border towards Myawaddy. The battle is part of the regime’s ongoing Aung Zey operation, launched on April 9, to recapture positions held by the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and allied forces, including Myawaddy Asia New Road and Thingannyinaung. After nearly seven months of intense combat, involving drones, air force, and artillery with a total force of around two thousand soldiers, the regime has yet to achieve its objective. In October, KNLA and allied forces intensified their attacks on regime camps in Myawaddy, Kawkareik, Payathonzu, and Papun townships, with fighting continuing on an almost daily basis.
- Chin Defense Forces Chief Ram Zel killed in battle for Thantlang
It has been confirmed that Ram Zel, Chief of the Chin Defense Forces (CDF) of Thantlang, died on October 12 while engaged in the front lines of the Thantlang capture battle. He was approximately 30 years old. Chin forces was preparing to attack the National League for Democracy (NLD) office, where regime forces were stationed in Thantlang town, when he was killed by enemy gunfire. His leadership on the front lines during the city capture battle represents a significant loss for the CDF. Earlier, on the evening of October 7, regime troops stationed at CB Bank in Thantlang were jointly captured by Chin resistance forces, including the CDF. The attack to capture the town began on July 22, and as of September, there have been ten deaths and thirty injuries among Chin forces.
Sources: Myanmar Now, Khit Thit Media, RFA Burmese, Mizzima News
