Hi folks, this week marks one year since the launch of Operation 1027 by the Three Brotherhood Alliance in northern Shan State. While the operation has slowed, its impact continues to fuel the resistance. Despite China’s significant influence over certain ethnic armed groups, Operation 1027 has demonstrated that regime forces are not invincible. Our commitment remains strong to support those who stay in this fight.
Meanwhile, China recently banned imports to Myanmar following an attack on its consulate in Mandalay, and the regime has cracked down on “illegal trade.” As a result, access to essential goods and supplies is increasingly limited, presenting yet another challenge for the people.
Internal Politics
- The regime troops committed mass killing in Butalin
The regime’s forces patrolling Budain Township in Sagaing Region reportedly committed extensive violence, according to Ko Moe Thauk, head of the PDF in Sipa Village. This military column killed 21 people, took over 50 individuals hostage as human shields, and set fire to five villages, destroying more than 500 homes. The assaults began on October 11 when the regime’s troops raided Butalin town, killing six family members, including children. On October 12, they attacked Myauk Kyi Village, killing seven more people. The violence continued with raids on October 18 and 19 in Sipa and Selwa villages, resulting in eight additional deaths. Photos on social media also showed decapitated body parts, evidencing the scale of violence that had taken place. Since departing from the Northwestern Regional Military Headquarters, the convoy detained over 50 civilians along its route to use as human shields, with all detainees still held. In villages such as Kyauk Oh, Sipa, Kywe Thay Chaung, Se Wa, and Sai Pyin Lay, over 500 houses have been burned, and public property was looted.
- KIO leader called for united effort against the regime
Speaking at the Kachin Independence Organization’s (KIO) 64th founding anniversary ceremony, General N Ban La addressed the current situation under the military dictatorship. General Inban La described the revolution against the military dictatorship as one supported by the entire population of Myanmar, expressing confidence that the regime will inevitably fall. He emphasized the importance of unity between the Spring Revolution forces and ethnic armed resistance groups in dismantling the military regime. He also confirmed that the KIO would continue its collaboration with all revolutionary forces. General N Ban La urged militia groups to sever ties with the military and join the KIO in their efforts. He further stated that the KIO is actively working to re-establish control over occupied areas and has begun implementing law enforcement and administrative operations in these regions.
- Rohingya armed groups fight alongside the regime, AA claimed
In Maungdaw and Buthidaung, border towns between Rakhine State and Bangladesh, the Arakan Army (AA) reported on October 22 that it is engaged in clashes not only with the military council’s forces but also with three armed Rohingya groups operating in Buthidaung Township. AA began its offensive in the Maungdaw region in February, where now only one outpost—Border Guard Police Sub-Division No. 5 —remains under the regime’s control. To maintain this foothold, the regime launched airstrikes on Maungdaw, causing significant casualties among local residents. AA expressed concerns over stability and public safety, as armed Rohingya factions—ARSA (Rohingya Salvation Army), ARA (Arakan Rohingya Army), and RSO (Rohingya Solidarity Organization)—established fortified positions in remote areas, including heavily forested mountains. These groups are reportedly engaging in terrorist activities, including kidnappings, extortion, and civilian arrests, further destabilizing the region. According to the AA, these armed groups are also clashing alongside the regime troops, creating a persistent threat to communities along the border.
- Deputy junta chief warned threats to national sovereignty as a propaganda tool
At a recent meeting of the Central Committee for Myanmar’s 77th Independence Day celebrations, vice junta chief Soe Win expressed concerns that Myanmar is at risk of losing its sovereignty. He argued that external forces are attempting to reduce Myanmar to a state that is technically independent yet lacking true sovereignty. Soe Win further highlighted concerns about global power imbalances, claiming that certain international actors aim to establish proxy governments that can be controlled to serve foreign interests. He suggested that this tactic is increasingly visible on the global political stage, where nations like Myanmar face efforts to destabilize them through indirect control. A former political prisoner, who served a long sentence for participating in Myanmar’s 1988 People’s Uprising, pointed out the regime’s continued use of nationalist propaganda suggesting an imminent foreign invasion or alignment with the military to rally public support.
International Affairs
- China called for swift action to identify perpetrators of the consulate attack
Following a bombing near the Chinese Consulate General in Mandalay on October 18, the Chinese government has urged Myanmar’s authorities to promptly identify and take action against those responsible. The incident occurred in Chan Mya Thar Zan Township on 73rd Street, damaging some buildings but causing no reported injuries. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mr. Lin Jian issued a strong condemnation of the attack, marking it as the first assault on an international diplomatic facility in Myanmar since the military coup of 2021. No group has yet claimed responsibility. In response, the Chinese Embassy and Consulate General in Myanmar called for heightened security measures to safeguard Chinese citizens, diplomatic missions, and associated projects across the country. Mr. Lin emphasized the importance of preventing similar incidents through strict security measures.
- China continued to pressure northern armed groups
On October 25, MNDAA leader U Hpon Ta Shwin met with Mr. Teng Xiquan, China’s Special Representative for Asian Affairs, in Yunnan Province, China, according to sources close to ethnic armed groups. The meeting reportedly took place while U Hpon Ta Shwin was in China for a health check-up, and discussions likely focused on pressuring the MNDAA to withdraw its forces from Lashio, a strategic city in northern Shan State. MNDAA has not released an official statement on the meeting. An analyst on ethnic affairs noted that Lashio’s strategic importance—with its airfield and location in the northern region—makes it unlikely the Kokang forces would surrender it easily. This is not the first instance of Chinese diplomatic involvement with Myanmar’s ethnic groups. On August 27, Mr. Teng held a meeting in Yunnan with leaders of the UWSP and urged them to cease assistance to MNDAA-controlled areas, including essential resources like food, medicine, and utilities, while pushing for stricter immigration controls. On October 17, Mr. Teng’s diplomatic team also met with General Gam Shaung, acting chairman of the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO), also urging them to seek a peaceful resolution.
- Myanmar military to conduct naval exercises with Russian naval vessels
The regime announced that four Russian naval vessels arrived at Yangon’s Thilawa Port on October 20 for joint military exercises. The exercises, led by Russian Naval Officer Antsiferov Alexey Vitalievich, include the Russian warships Gromky, Rezky, and Tsydenzhapov, along with the support vessel Pechenga. While the number of Russian personnel involved was not disclosed, these exercises will involve maritime security drills, including water-based, aerial, and underwater maneuvers, as well as live firing, taking place in the northern Kapali Sea from October 20 to 24. The arrival in Myanmar follows a visit by the Russian fleet to Malaysia earlier in the month, where a Russian military delegation also participated in ceremonies honoring Russian soldiers who died in World War I. Concurrently, the Russian Navy is also engaged in joint exercises with Iran and Oman in the Indian Ocean under the Iranian-led “IMEX 2024.” This operation aims to strengthen regional security cooperation, with Iran emphasizing enhanced mutual defense capabilities and coordination.
- U Kyaw Moe Tun urged investigation of alleged chemical weapon use by the regime
Myanmar’s representative to the UN, U Kyaw Moe Tun, called on the international community, including the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) and its member states, to investigate alleged use of chemical weapons by the military regime in conflict zones. Speaking at the 79th UN General Assembly on October 23, U Kyaw Moe Tun claimed that evidential materials had been collected and they showed that chemical weapons had been used, causing injuries, temporary disability, and disorientation among civilians. He highlighted the importance of investigating these allegations, stressing that the regime has disregarded treaty obligations under the Chemical Weapons Convention. As a signatory to the Chemical Weapons Convention, Myanmar’s undisclosed chemical weapons program violates Articles 1, 2, and 3 of the treaty, U Kyaw Moe Tun stated, and he urged the OPCW and treaty members to verify evidence and conduct a timely investigation.
Business Matters
- China halted imports to Myanmar at two border crossings in the north
Border traders report that the Chinese government has imposed a temporary ban on goods imported into Myanmar via the Muse and Mong La border gates in northern and eastern Shan State, effective from October 22. This restriction targets the border areas controlled by ethnic revolutionary forces along Myanmar’s 1,300-mile border with China and is seen as a measure to pressure the ethnic armed groups to cease their offensive actions against the military regime While trade at these gates, typically controlled by the regime, was previously permitted, traders now confirm that all imports are halted at these crossings. A trader from Muse explained that importing companies and freight terminals were notified of the restrictions through tax clearing companies like Pauk Kum Company. The ban applies to various goods, including household items, electrical supplies, solar equipment, lighting, food, blankets, and construction materials such as cement. The notice indicates that changes to this policy will be communicated if adjustments are made.
- The regime intensified inspections of imported good in Mandalay
Reports indicate that the regime is ramping up inspections of foreign goods in Mandalay, a key market and distribution center for Upper Myanmar, to ensure compliance with tax regulations. Amid a foreign currency crisis that has restricted imports and disrupted the flow of goods at many border trade gates, General Soe Win, the deputy junta chief, emphasized the need to control illegal trade during a meeting on October 9. He ordered increased scrutiny of unlicensed imports. Following this directive, inspections of Thai and Chinese goods have intensified since the third week of October. On October 23, a team including police, municipal and government officials about 15 officers conducted a raid on beauty shops and warehouses selling foreign goods in Mandalay Market. A 25-year-old shop owner reported that the joint inspection team assessed cosmetics, although no items had been confiscated at that time, and negotiations were reportedly ongoing. Additionally, a 30-year-old Mandalay resident mentioned that the inspection team also targeted a well-known consumer goods store, “Kisna,” in the market. He expressed concern about potential threats to shop owners, stating that if they couldn’t provide documentation for the goods, they could face arrest or demands for bribes.
- The regime to fully control gold market with new regulations
The regime announced its intention to exert full control over the gold market, designating gold trading as a critical service. On October 24, it established a Gold Reference Price Determination Committee, which includes various ministers from the military regime. In conjunction with the new designation, a series of orders were issued, including a prohibition on unauthorized gold trading, restrictions on transactions, and enhanced supervision measures. The committee, comprising 15 members—including the vice-chairman of the Central Bank—will be chaired by the deputy minister of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection. This committee will hold daily online meetings to establish gold prices and aims to prevent market manipulation. New regulations require all gold shops across Myanmar, including those in Mandalay, to obtain a license from the regime. Licensed traders must adhere to the gold prices set by the council. Opening a gold shop without proper licensing could result in penalties, including imprisonment for six months to three years, fines, and the suspension of trading licenses, according to Section 5 of the Essential Services and Commodities Law.
- The regime mandates smart card fuel sales systems
The regime directed fuel retailers nationwide to implement smart card fuel sales systems and real-time monitoring systems to track fuel quantities. Brigadier General Win Myint Khaing and the Ministry of Energy are leading this initiative, which aims to reduce fuel imports and prevent unauthorized sales outside designated areas. On October 23, a coordination meeting was held at the Ministry of Energy in Nay Pyi Taw, where Brigadier General Win Myint Khaing emphasized the urgency of installing these systems, which are estimated to cost around 1 billion Kyats. Currently, there are 916 petrol stations across Myanmar, and all are required to adopt the real-time monitoring system. Failure to comply with these regulations will result in the suspension of fuel licenses and sales. The installation of the real-time systems would be very costly, putting financial strain on private gas stations that are struggling to meet these requirements.
Humanitarian Affairs
- The regime threatened for eviction to villages near Rakhine Yoma mountain range
Residents report that the regime threatened to evict over 20 villages along the Rakhine border this month, prompting many to flee. By October 21, more than 300 houses across these villages in Yay Kyi Township of Ayeyarwaddy Region and some areas in Gwa Township had been affected. The region, located in the southernmost part of Rakhine State, is experiencing heightened tensions, with local inhabitants expressing fear of airstrikes should they refuse to evacuate. A resident from Yay Kyi Township noted that families living near the Rakhine Yoma mountain range have been particularly targeted for relocation, with both small and large villages, such as Saw Ba, being impacted. Some residents are struggling to move due to a lack of transportation for their belongings, resorting to motorcycles and bicycles, while others are forced to travel on foot. This mass displacement highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis as residents grapple with the threat of violence and the challenges of relocation.
- The regime seized trucks carrying food aid to Rakhine State
Residents reported to RFA on October 26 that seven trucks loaded with food intended for Rakhine State were seized in Kyunkone village, Ain Me Township. A local resident, who wished to remain anonymous for safety reasons, explained that the trucks were intercepted before they could transfer their cargo to waiting ships that were to transport the goods to Rakhine. According to reports, the regime’s police in Ain Me Township arrested the drivers of these trucks and initiated legal proceedings against them for allegedly carrying goods not authorized for export to Rakhine State. The specific charges under which the drivers were arrested remain unclear. Pro-military Telegram channels indicated that the seized trucks included a variety of items destined for the Arakan Army (AA), such as rice, salt, oil, fuel, medicine, alcohol, beer, gun straps, military boots, and clothing. These trucks are reportedly being inspected at a football stadium hall in Ain Me city.
- Thousands fled due to intense clashes in Zee Kone, Bago
Local sources told Khit Thit media that heavy fighting has erupted in Zee Kone Township in Bago Region with a military unit stationed in Doe Nwe village conducting patrols in nearby areas. Since October 23, the regime’s troops had been aggressively engaging local resistance forces, resulting in heavy artillery fire directed at civilian villages. As a consequence of the intense conflict, residents from Thakhoppin, Mhat Taing, and Yon Chaung villages have fled to safety. The situation remains volatile, with ongoing hostilities as the military’s bombardments continue to threaten the local population. Thousands are now displaced, highlighting the escalating violence and humanitarian crisis in the region.
- Over 2000 fled Kanpaiti in Kachin State to escape from intense conflicts
On October 21, local residents reported that over 2,000 individuals from Kanpaiti, a trade town on the Chinese border in Waing Maw Township, Kachin State, fled to safety due to escalating fighting in the region. Residents from Kanpaiti town and four villages nearby have been seeking refuge in the forests for about five days. The regime conducted airstrikes in the Kanpaiti area on the night of October 20, although fighting was since subsided. The exodus intensified after the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and its allies captured five checkpoints of the 1003 Border Guard Force in Shang Kyai village, located approximately 20 miles from Kanpaiti, on October 17. Residents feared that the conflict would escalate near the headquarters of the 1003 Border Guard Force and in Kanpaiti itself.
Attacks on the Junta’s Lackeys & Assets
- KIA sealed off junta-allied Kachin militia leader in Pangwa
After the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) captured the town of Pangwa in Kachin State, they sealed off the house of Zahkung Ting Ying, the Chairman of Kachin Special Region (1), according to KIA spokesperson Naw Bu on October 23. Colonel Naw Bu explained that the KIA is working to establish control in Pangwa and secure important locations to prevent any losses. The KIA took over Pangwa on October 18, but Zahkung Ting Ying was not in the town during the fighting, and his current whereabouts are unknown. Locals believe he may be seeking medical treatment in China, but this has not been confirmed.
Zahkung Ting Ying, a former junior commander in the KIA, previously led the New Democratic Army-Kachin (NDA-K). In 2009, he signed a truce with the former regime and was reorganized as the Border Guard Force (Kachin-BGF), overseeing three battalions in Kanpiketi, Pangwa, and Phimaw, near the Chinese border. In exchange, he gained control of Kachin State Special Region 1, which includes Chipwi, Tsawlaw, Pangwa, Kanpiketi, and Waingmaw. Chipwi and Pangwa are notable hubs for rare earth mining.
- Pyu Saw Htee member shot dead by PDF in Bago Region
On the night of October 24, Zaw Min, a member of the Pyu Saw Htee militia, was shot and killed by the People’s Defense Force (PDF) in Thae Kone Township, Bago Region.
Zaw Min had completed a training course with the regime’s Pyu Saw Htee and had been providing information to soldiers and police about local residents and resistance activities. He was known for continuously reporting on those involved in the revolution.
A PDF official in Thae Kone Township stated, “Zaw Min was actively participating in illegal military recruitment. We had to fire at him because of that. His companion was released.” The Thae Kone PDF emphasized that it consistently monitors Pyu Saw Htee members, ward administrators, and regime soldiers, warning them not to force the public to join the military, engage in blackmail, or collect money from residents.
- Attack on ward administrator offices in Yangon
The ward administrator’s office conducting the census in Ward 26, South Dagon Township, Yangon, was attacked on the night of October 25. The Yangon UG People’s Army (YUPA) announced that a powerful remote-controlled mine was used in the attack. The assault was carried out in collaboration with the North Oakkalapa PDF Unit (2). A YUPA official told RFA that there may have been casualties among the administration’s staff present at the time of the attack. The explosion was timed to coincide with the regime’s personnel presence, and its strength could result in fatalities. Following the blast, the area was cordoned off for inspection, with military personnel in civilian clothes observed on the scene, along with motorbikes patrolling the area. Also on October 23, the ward administrator offices in Shwepyitha Township Ward 2 and Ward 21 were attacked by urban UG soldiers who threw grenades, injuring the administrator and members of the administration.
Arbitrary Arrests, Killings & Violence
- Regime’s soldiers committed gruesome murders in Budalin tsp, Sagaing Region
Residents report that the regime’s forces have been conducting offensives in Budalin and nearby villages, resulting in the deaths of at least twenty civilians since early October in the Sagaing Region. On October 19, locals and PDF forces informed RFA that six bodies were discovered in Sipa village, showing signs of brutal murder. These victims, including 70-year-old U Tin Hlaing, U Kyaung Po, U Ya Sein, U Htay Lwin, all aged 60, and two unidentified men in their 30s, were found just two days after a raid by a column of about 100 troops from the regime’s 33rd Division. A local resident who saw the bodies reported that some were mutilated. Resistance forces also told RFA that they were unable to defend themselves due to the regime’s ongoing ground and air offensives.
- Reigme’s airstrikes resulted in civilian casualties in Matara tsp, Mandalay Region
On the evening of October 21, the regime’s air force bombed villages in Matara Township, Mandalay Region, killing a one-year-old child and his mother, and injuring at least five others, according to local residents. The air force conducted at least five bombings that day on villages along the Irrawaddy River. Among the victims was a 28-year-old woman from Mwaytahlaing village, who also lost her one-year-old son in the attacks. There may have been additional casualties from gunfire in Thamintwin village, but a detailed investigation is still pending. Approximately 20 miles from Mandalay, fighting continues between the Military Council and the MDY-PDF in Matara Township, leading to rising civilian deaths due to airstrikes and artillery from the regime. In September, the junta ordered airstrikes to regain control of areas occupied by resistance forces, intensifying the conflict in the region.
- Regime arrested son-in-law of former military dictator
Dr. Nay Soe Maung, the son-in-law of former dictator U Than Shwe, was arrested by the regime on October 23 on charges of incitement. His detention comes after he posted a tribute on Facebook on October 8, honoring the late NLD Deputy Leader and Mandalay Chief Minister Dr. Zaw Myint Maung. In connection with his arrest, a total of 11 young doctors from Upper Myanmar, who were working alongside him in a health charity, have also been detained and are currently under investigation. The families of these doctors are anxiously trying to reach them, but the regime has not released any information regarding their status.
- Regime continued to bomb Laship, Shan State
On October 23, the junta’s forces bombed Lashio, the northern capital of Shan State, which is occupied by the MNDAA, twice in one morning. A local source close to the MNDAA reported that the first bombing occurred around 8:30 am at the entrance of Lashio City, targeting a traditional rice distillery. The distillery, which also produces alcohol, suffered significant damage, and some parts of the building caught fire. Firefighters from the Lashio City Administration of the MNDAA were able to extinguish the flames. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries. A second plane later hovered over the city and dropped a bomb around 10:00 am, but the location of this attack has not been confirmed, and damage or casualties are still unknown. Some local residents noted that Kokang troops on the ground responded to the junta’s air strikes.
- Junta sealed off home of Than Lwin Times editor-in-chief in Mawlamyine, Mon State
On October 25, the junta’s forces reportedly sealed off the home of U Ko Ko Zaw, editor-in-chief of Than Lwin Times, in Mawlamyine, Mon State. U Ko Ko Zaw stated that the house was sealed due to accusations of links to terrorist groups. Following the military coup in 2021, regime troops raided U Ko Ko Zaw’s home on February 28, forcing him to narrowly escape. Later, on June 25, 2021, troops stormed the Than Lwin Times office in Mawlamyine, prompting all staff members to flee to the border. U Ko Ko Zaw expressed his commitment to the media and the resistance, saying, “My current business is in media. I am participating in this resistance as much as I can. The revolution will not stop because our house is seized. We will continue to do whatever we can to support the media industry.” U Ko Ko Zaw comes from a politically active family. In 1997, the family’s printing press was shut down, and its assets were confiscated after his father was sentenced to six years in prison, while he received a seven-year sentence. Than Lwin Times is an ethnic news agency based in Mon State, founded in May 2021. Currently operating from the Thai-Myanmar border, it reports on the violence of the military council and human rights violations in Mon State, Karen State, and Tanintharyi.
Armed Resistance
- Resistance forces withdrew from strategic village in Ngazun tsp, Mandalay Region
Resistance forces retreated from Nganmyargyi village in Ngazun Township, southern Mandalay, on October 21 after a week of fighting and rising casualties. A spokesperson said they had to pull back after two months of controlling the village due to ammunition shortages. Since September 20, the regime’s forces have been conducting daily airstrikes on villages suspected of harboring resistance forces, leading to 14 deaths. Nganmyargyi Village, located across the Irrawaddy River and about six miles from the regime’s navy base and 30 miles from Tada-U air base, remains important for both the junta and the revolutionaries.
- Clashes emerged in Shan-Mandalay border areas
Fighting along the Shan State and Mandalay Region border has continued for nearly a week, with the regime restricting civilians’ movement to the Shan State. Meanwhile, military families have been evacuated from Pyin Oo Lwin town. An information officer from MDY-PDF confirmed renewed clashes between the junta’s forces and resistance fighters in villages spanning Naung Cho Township in Northern Shan State and Pyin Oo Lwin Township in Mandalay Region. He also reported that the regime is conducting offensives in these villages. As of the morning of October 21, military patrols were noted near the villages of Naung Cho Township, with fierce fighting reported in Gantgaw village. The conflict includes both ground troops and air attacks, with drone strikes targeting the area. Local sources claim that the junta is intentionally designating non-combat zones as military targets, putting civilians at risk.
- KIA captured regime’s border guard battalion in Kachin State
On October 21, the Kachin Liberation Army (KIA) and joint forces attacked and seized the regime’s 1003rd Border Guard Battalion, responsible for security in Kanpaikti, a trade town on the China-Myanmar border. Colonel Naw Bu, in charge of KIA communications, confirmed the operation to RFA, highlighting the battalion’s strategic importance on the Winemaw-Kanpaikti road. The captured camp not only secured Kanpaikti but also provided protection for nearby poppy plantations. Fierce battles ensued for two days as regime troops attempted to respond with tanks. Following the capture, local residents reported fleeing the area, fearing an escalation of fighting in Kanpaikti.
- Junta bombed KNU headquarters for the first time in Karen State
The regime’s forces bombed the headquarters of the Karen National Union (KNU) in Hpa-an District, Karen State with a drone at 11:30 am on October 22. A KNU Brigade (7) official reported that the attack occurred during a regular meeting attended by top KNU leaders, which forced the meeting to be canceled and attendees to disperse. This headquarters also serves as the base for the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and the Karen National Defense Force (KNDO). A senior KNU official confirmed that this bombing marked the first attack on the headquarters since the coup nearly four years ago, and, no one was injured.
“This is the first time the regime has targeted our central headquarters. We are engaged in conflict with them, so we must prepare ourselves. If the army comes to fight, we will resist,” the official stated. Since the military coup, fighting has escalated in KNU’s active areas, although the 7th Brigade has experienced the least combat.
- Regime attacked PDF camp in Tamu tsp, Sagaing Region
On October 23, regime forces attacked the People’s Defense Forces (PDF) camp in Nangmoonta village, Sagaing Region, on the border of India-Myanmar border, resulting in casualties on both sides. The assault began around 5:30 am at the 4th PDF Battalion’s camp, killing three rangers and injuring one from the PDF. In response, three armed regime soldiers were killed, and one was captured. The PDF recaptured the camp during the confrontation, but the regime has reinforced its troops in the area, escalating tensions. Nangmoonta village is located about 1.5 miles from the Indian border, situated between Tamu and Khampat towns.
- Intense fighting continued in Ann tsp, Rakhine State
The Arakan Army (AA) reported on October 25 that intense fighting continues near the military base in Ann Township, which houses the Western Regional Military Headquarters. Fighting first erupted in Ann Township on September 26 and has since escalated to the point where the AA has occupied much of the area. AA spokesperson informed Myanmar Now that the battle for control of the Western Regional Military Headquarters is ongoing in Ann, with heavy fighting also reported in Gwa Township and the last remaining camp in Maungdaw. Local sources suggest that the regime is hesitant to use the nearby airstrip due to AA heavy weapon fire targeting the area. Additionally, the rivers in the region are narrow, complicating military vehicle movements. Fighting has also been reported in Magway Region, which borders Ann Township.
Sources: Myanmar Now, Khit Thit, RFA Burmese, Than Lwin Times
