Hi folks, a week is a long time in politics. This week, the Kokang’s MNDAA made headlines by distancing itself from the National Unity Government (NUG) and counting itself out of the further offensive, a move many speculate was due to Chinese pressure. It’s been a disappointment for the Myanmar people, who had placed high hopes in Operation 1027, launched by the MNDAA and its alliances. But this situation serves as a reminder: the military regime won’t be toppled by victories in ethnic regions alone. The path forward must lead to Naypyitaw, and we all need to contribute to supporting the forces committed to getting there, one way or another.
Internal Politics
- Five youths rumored to face execution in Yangon’s Insein Prison next week
Five youths, including four men and one woman, are scheduled to be executed on September 24, according to sources close to Insein Prison. They were arrested for allegedly participating in attacks on the regime’s troops following the 2021 coup. They were involved in a deadly August 14, 2021, shooting on the Yangon circular train, where one police sergeant, one lieutenant, and three policemen were killed. The urban guerrilla forces claimed responsibility for seizing weapons and ammunition during the attack. Among the group, Ko Kaung Pyae Sone Oo was charged under the 1949 Arms (Emergency Punishment) Act and anti-terrorism laws, receiving multiple death sentences. The other four were charged with murder, and various arms-related offenses, also receiving death and life sentences. After being imprisoned for over a year, the military junta plans to carry out the executions on September 24. Preparations at Insein Prison, including cleaning the gallows and measuring the condemned for hanging, are reportedly underway. Pro-democracy forces have called on the public to protest these secretive executions and the arbitrary death sentences imposed by the military council.
- MNDAA issued statement amid China’s pressure, reaffirmed non-cooperation with NUG
Kokang’s MNDAA, one of the leading forces of Operation 1027, issued a statement on September 4 that aligns with China’s stance, which has warned against interference in Myanmar’s affairs. The MNDAA declared it would not cooperate politically with the National Unity Government (NUG), and would not attack Mandalay or Taunggyi. The MNDAA controls the Myanmar-China border from the Kokang region to Lashio in Shan State. Following China’s late-August call for peace talks after MNDAA and TNLA forces captured most of northern Shan State, the MNDAA’s statement followed suit. The statement was quickly removed from social media, but it was later reissued on September 18. Political analyst U Than Soe Naing suggested that Chinese pressure influenced the MNDAA’s actions. While this may slightly affect relations with some People’s Defense Forces, it is not expected to impact broader revolutionary efforts like the Shan-Mann operation. In that statement, MNDAA reiterated its right to self-defense while seeking a mediated resolution to Myanmar’s crisis.
- Nine ethnic groups reached an agreement on building federal democratic union
The Karen National Union (KNU) and eight other ethnic revolutionary groups have agreed on a four-point framework as part of building a federal democratic union. This bottom-up federalism approach was formalized in a joint press release issued on September 19. U Aung San Myint, secretary of the Karenni National Progressive Party (KNPP), explained that after thorough discussions, the groups agreed to first focus on empowering individual states, which would ultimately strengthen the union. The agreement stresses that sovereignty lies with the people of each state or federal unit, based on principles of equality, self-determination, and a fair division of power that keeps governance close to the people. The nine groups committed to collaborating in the continued development of a federal democratic union. The participating groups include the KNU, KNPP, Chin National Front (CNF), Karenni State Consultative Council (KSCC), Pa-O National Federal Council (PNFC), New Mon State Party Anti-Dictatorship (NMSP-AD), Mon State Federal Council (MSFC), Ta’ang Political Consultative Council (TPCC), and Women’s League – Burma (WLB).
- Yangon protesters staged a strike against conscription and rising prices amidst tight security
On the night of September 19, Yangon strike forces held a protest against the military regime, opposing its conscription law and calling for a reduction in soaring commodity prices. Protesters also criticized the military’s failure to assist with recent flooding. Ko Byatta, an official from the Yangon anti-junta protest group (AJAY), stated that they will continue demonstrating until the dictatorship is overthrown. Since the 2021 coup, protests have erupted nationwide, with civilians demanding lower prices and condemning the military’s repressive measures and acts of terrorism. Many protesters have been arrested and imprisoned during these ongoing strikes.
- NUG to take action against forced remittance of migrant workers’ incomes
On September 20, the NUG announced that it would take action against agencies and private brokers who coerce Myanmar migrant workers abroad to send remittances as directed by the military council. The regime had mandated that at least 25% of migrant workers’ income be sent back to Myanmar through designated financial institutions, threatening to withhold passports from those who failed to comply. The NUG criticized the military’s policy, stating that it violates civil rights and is not supported by the Foreign Employment Act of 1999. Additionally, licensed foreign employment agencies were ordered to provide proof of remittances sent to workers’ families or face penalties. The NUG called on international organizations, including the International Labor Organization (ILO), to address these labor and civil rights violations.
- The regime pushed for quick resettlement of flood victims ahead of census
Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing emphasized the need to resettle flood victims in relief camps before the national census, scheduled for October 1. During a meeting on disaster management on September 17 in Nay Pyi Taw, he urged for swift relief efforts and minimal damage recovery, with a deadline of six months for completing the process. Political analyst U Than Soe Naing expressed concerns to RFA, warning that the military’s rush to return flood victims home before the census could lead to incomplete reconstruction and inadequate support. He noted that victims may be forced to return without proper recovery plans in place, prioritizing the census over necessary rebuilding efforts.
International Affairs
- Thailand and Myanmar to collaborate on flood management solutions
On September 17, the Bangkok Post reported that Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa announced discussions with Myanmar authorities to address regional flooding. He emphasized the need for both countries to explore ways to reduce flooding and expand water retention areas. The minister noted that Myanmar typically experiences less flooding due to storm impacts and the rapid flow of the Salween River from the highlands. The Thai Embassy in Myanmar is coordinating technical discussions to identify suitable water storage locations. Currently, floods are severely affecting Mekong River countries, with Tachilek, Myanmar, facing its worst floods in thirty years. The Bangkok Post highlighted that construction along the Salween River has contributed to shallow channels and drainage issues. To promote long-term flood prevention, the Thai foreign minister is preparing to propose enhanced cooperation in water management under the Mekong-Lanchang Cooperation Framework.
- NUG Human Rights Minister urges diplomats to withhold support to the regime
On September 19, U Aung Myo Min, the NUG’s Human Rights Minister, urged international diplomats not to cooperate with the military regime, citing past abuses of humanitarian aid during natural disasters. His remarks were made at a diplomatic conference held at the United Nations in Geneva, where he addressed the current human rights situation and the impact of recent storms on the population. U Aung Myo Min emphasized the NUG’s collaboration with ethnic organizations to assist flood victims and called for increased international support. He referenced a recent report from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, which stated that over 5,000 civilians have been killed and more than 3.3 million displaced since the military coup. He pledged that the NUG would take responsibility in accordance with the report’s recommendations.
- SAC-M calls for urgent cross-border aid for Typhoon Yagi victims in Myanmar
On September 17, the Special Advisory Council on Myanmar (SAC-M) issued a statement emphasizing the urgent need for cross-border assistance to those affected by Cyclone Yagi. The council urged neighboring countries—China, India, Thailand, Laos, and Bangladesh—to open their borders to facilitate humanitarian aid from international and social organizations. SAC-M highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, which has been grappling with a military dictatorship for nearly four years. The military council’s actions, including attacks on civilians with airstrikes and heavy weaponry, have exacerbated the situation. Amid these challenges, the people of Myanmar urgently require humanitarian assistance to recover from the dual impacts of the storm and political turmoil, the statement said.
Business Matters
- KBZ blocked KPay accounts that transfer fund for flood relief aid
On September 17, RFA reported that users of the KBZ Pay mobile payment system encountered issues when attempting to donate for flood relief, as their accounts were blocked. One anonymous user shared that after specifying the donation was for flood relief, they received notification that their account was temporarily closed under the Anti-Money Laundering Law. This individual, who aimed to assist flood victims but was unable to deliver aid personally, expressed frustration over losing access to over 7,000,000 kyats in their account. To inform potential donors, they announced on Facebook not to transfer funds through their account. At least five accounts belonging to flood relief workers and contributors have been closed, though the total number of blocked accounts across the country remains unclear. When RFA contacted the KBZ call center for clarification, they stated they were not authorized to provide information. Since the military coup, the junta has tightened controls on internal payment systems to curb financial support for revolutionary forces.
- Closure of India-Myanmar border trade bridge cause food shortage
Residents near the India-Myanmar border reported to RFA that the Rih Khawthar – Rih – Zokhawthar trade bridge has been closed for over two months, leading to significant food shortages in the area. The bridge was shut down on July 25 due to an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation regarding the illegal importation of dried betel nuts into India. Chin State residents, particularly in Rih Khawthar, primarily relied on imports from Mizoram State for essentials like rice and fish paste. With the border closed, they are now forced to buy goods from other parts of Myanmar at inflated prices. A resident of Aizawl noted that the inability to import goods from India has caused prices to soar, and stringent border controls complicate even minor transactions, such as carrying empty bags. There has been no indication from Indian authorities regarding when it might reopen.
- Fuel shortage cause long queues at gas stations in Yangon and Mandalay
Motorists in Yangon and Mandalay have been facing long queues at gas stations since September 19 due to fuel shortages. Gasoline and diesel were unavailable starting the evening of September 18, prompting limited sales to resume the following day. A taxi driver reported waiting about two and a half hours to fill up, highlighting that some stations are selling low-quality used fuel. Currently, gas stations in Yangon are reportedly facing a shortage of fuel, with many reselling oil in limited quantities. Similar scenes unfolded in Mandalay, where residents queued again to buy motor fuel. A local shop owner expressed concerns that rising dollar prices could lead to oil importers halting production and sales, with accusations that large companies aligned with the military council are exacerbating the crisis.
Humanitarian Affairs
- Aftermath of Typhoon Yagi, affecting nearly 900,000 people in Myanmar
Typhoon Yagi, which struck on September 10, has led to severe flooding and landslides across low-lying areas near Nay Pyi Taw, Mandalay, and regions including Bago, Shan, Karen, Karenni, and Mon states. The storm has resulted in hundreds of deaths and displaced thousands. On September 20, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that 887,000 people have been affected, with 65 townships impacted by the floods. According to OCHA, more than 300 people have died and nearly 100 have been injured. In Mandalay Region, typically less prone to flooding, over 230 individuals in 15 villages have been affected, with 50 injuries reported requiring hospitalization.
Karenni (Kayah) State: As of September 20, a total of 40,000 displaced people have been affected by the flood caused by the overflowing of Mobye dam. Karenni State Interim Executive Council said that people in Phekon, Loikaw, Demoso and Shadaw townships are in need of relief assistance.
Shan State (South): Residents of Kalaw have been unable to return to their homes since the water receded on September 14, facing significant cleanup efforts due to approximately one foot of silt and mud. While the regime’s Municipal Department has cleared the main road and some schools, residential areas remain cluttered with debris. Around 700 homes were reported damaged, with 255 completely washed away, according to those assisting flood victims. Recent estimates indicate that about 4,000 residents have been affected by the floods, with around 700 seeking shelter in 11 monasteries. Cleanup efforts are ongoing, but residents anticipate a lengthy process before they can return home.
Shan State (South): A member of the Pa-O Youth Association Central Committee said that the death toll from floods and landslides in 10 townships of southern Shan State due to Typhoon has exceeded 140. According to information from the Pa-O Youth Organization (PYO), between 250 and 300 villages in these townships were impacted, with approximately 80% experiencing flooding and 20% affected by landslides.
Bago Region: More than 80,000 people in over 50 villages in Taungoo Township are in urgent need of food and medical assistance due to severe flooding. The Taungoo District has seen significant evacuations, particularly in areas like Taungoo, Oaktwin, Yay Tar Shay, Htantapin, as water levels rose from the Sittaung River, submerging low-lying neighborhoods by over nine feet. Although water levels have since receded by more than four feet, flood victims continue to report a critical need for basic food items for cooking and sustenance.
Bago Region: In Yay Tar Shay township, located on the east side of the Sittaung River, the regime is reportedly restricting the delivery of food and aid to flood-affected villagers. Following significant flooding, at least 30 villages along the river have been inundated. However, regime forces are allowing only a limited amount of food to be sent and are imposing strict inspections on those attempting to provide assistance. One local described how soldiers check donation packages, permitting only a small number to pass through to the flood victims, further complicating the humanitarian response.
Bago Region: On September 17, rescuers said that individuals attempting to assist flood victims in Phyu Township are facing strict scrutiny at military checkpoints, which prevent them from carrying essential items like rice and medicine. In Phyu Township, nearly thirty villages along the Sittaung River have been inundated, and food deliveries are being obstructed by the military as the resistance fighters are present in the area. A local aid worker stated that while some donors wish to send supplies, the military council is refusing to allow access, complicating the humanitarian response.
Mandalay Region: As of September 16, four villages in Myit Thar Township, Mandalay Region, remain flooded, leaving over 5,000 people in urgent need of food and drinking water, according to relief workers. While water levels have receded in Myit Thar town since September 15, four villages continue to be submerged. A relief worker reported that residents are relocating to higher ground and monasteries, highlighting their critical need for food assistance.
Attacks on the Junta’s Lackeys & Assets
- Two UG rangers detained during mission in Yangon
On September 15, two rangers from the Dark Shadow, a Yangon-based Urban Guerrilla Force, were reportedly arrested by the regime’s forces. The rangers were preparing an attack on the junta’s Mhawbi Airbase in Mhawbi Township when the raid occurred, leading to their arrests. The identities of the detainees have not been disclosed. However, the remaining members of the group managed to escape. Mhawbi Airbase is used by the regime to bomb the Karenni and Tanintharyi regions. Dark Shadow Force stated that despite this failed mission, it remains committed to its ultimate goal of eradicating the military dictatorship.
- Two police killed in Okpo tsp, Bago Region
On the afternoon of September 16, a group of five police were attacked near Ayemyathayar Police Station in Okpho Township, Bago Region. Zaw Win, police chief and Ko Thet, police informer were said to be killed on the spot. They were said to be on course to abduct civilians for mandatory military training. Okpho Underground Guerilla Force conducted the mission. It also claimed to have confiscated the police credentials from the attack.
- KIA to destroy eight regime navy ships under their control
During clashes in Kachin State, the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and the People’s Defense Forces (PDF) reportedly captured eight regime navy ships as part of the junta’s offensive near Shweku Town. The resistance forces plan to destroy and detonate all of the ships.
- Ward administrator and staff shot dead in South Dagon tsp, Yangon
More regime staff in the General Administrative Department (GAD) have been targeted in Yangon. On September 20, the ward administrator U Kyi Tun, and hundred-household’ chief U Swe Myint Aung, both from Ward 107 in South Dagon Township were shot by two unknown gunmen in front of their office. U Kyi Tun was said to be killed on the spot while the other man passed away on the way to the hospital.
Arbitrary Arrests, Killings & Violence
- 23 civilians tortured and interrogated by regime soldiers in Wanbao Project area, Sagaing Region
A total of 23 civilians were arrested by the regime soldiers in the area surrounding the copper mining project jointly operated by the regime and China in Sarlingyi Township, Sagaing Region. The detainees were interrogated and tortured for four days about resistance force activities before being released. According to local residents, the regime’s army was attacked with a landmine near the Wanbao project on the evening of September 12. Within hours, they arrested the civilians for questioning in connection with the attack. The arrested civilians, including 9 men and 14 women, were separated, tortured, and interrogated.
- Seventy civilians arrested in Sittwe, Rakhine State
On September 13, approximately seventy residents from Strand Road and the surrounding area, including Shwe Pya Ward in Sittwe, Rakhine State, were arrested by the regime’s forces. They have not been released until September 15. A Sittwe resident said that the civilians were detained for transporting goods, including food supplies. The exact location where they were taken remains unknown, though local news reports suggest they are being held at Sittwe City’s No. 1 Police Station. Currently, the junta has tightened security along Sittwe’s waterfront road, where the arrests took place. Residents reported that restrictions have been imposed on transporting goods in the area.
- Five members of Myingyan Public Action Committee killed in clash with regime forces
On September 16, five members of the Myingyan Public Action Committee—Ko Hla Myo Kyaw (also known as Ko ET), Ko Fatty, Ko Kalar, Ko Baw Gyi, and Ko Kyaw Thet—lost their lives after encountering a regime military column in Myingyan Township, Mandalay Region. Ko Hla Myo Kyaw, a former political prisoner, was a key revolutionary figure who fought against the regime council through various non-violent means during the resistance. Throughout his life, he dedicated all his physical and intellectual efforts to ensure the continued education of children in the areas where he sought refuge.
- 12 women killed during attack on vehicle in Sagaing tsp, Sagaing Region
On the morning of September 17, a vehicle was attacked in Sagaing Township, resulting in the deaths of 12 female agricultural workers and injuries to three men. The attack occurred around 6:30 am in an uphill area of the highway, approximately one mile northeast of Kywepon Village. The deceased were civilians, while the three injured men were armed members of Pyu Saw Htee, who were accompanying the group as security. It is speculated that the attackers targeted the vehicle to confiscate weapons. Kywepon Village, located near the Mu River and about 24 miles from Sagaing, is known locally as a base for the regime’s army and Pyu Saw Htee forces. It remains unclear who is responsible for the attack. Military supporters have framed it as an act of terrorism by the resistance forces, but there is also speculation that armed Pyu Saw Htee members may have clashed with resistance rangers and accidentally entered a landmine detonation zone.
- Nine members of social assistance association arrested in Mon State
In Thanbyuzayat, Mon State, nine members of the Social Assistance Association named “Paing Shin Mae”, including its president, were arrested by the regime for undisclosed reasons. On September 18, around 10:00 pm, the soldiers raided the association’s office in Aung Mingalar Ward and arrested six members, including the president. Two days later, three more members were arrested at their homes. Those detained are currently being held at an interrogation center, and have not had any contact with their families. Among those arrested are U Ye Min Thai, president, U Zaw Wan, Ko Ye Hlaing Oo, and Ko Won Kyi. The names of the remaining four detainees are still unknown. Since the coup in Mon State, members of social assistance groups have been frequently arrested, severely restricting their ability to move freely, according to relief workers and local residents.
- Four pro-resistance activists arrested in Yangon
On September 21, four individuals involved in pro-resistance activities in Yangon were arrested by the regime. The detained include freelance photojournalist Ko Zaw Lin Thut (aka Ko Phoe Thar), Ko Aung Min Khaing (aka Mae Kyi), leader of the Youth Strike Committee, as well as Ma Mya Myint Zu and former political prisoner Ma Hnin Ei Khine. Their last known contact with family and friends was on the evening of September 19. The four are reportedly being subjected to severe torture and inhumane interrogation by the regime, putting their health and lives in serious danger, according to sources.
Armed Resistance
- Chin Resistance Forces Capture Regime Camp in Thantlang
On the evening of September 17, Chin resistance forces successfully attacked and captured the regime’s military camp located at the Lai Villa Guest House in Thantlang Town, Chin State. The operation followed three days of intense fighting that began on September 15. The Lai Villa camp housed approximately 100 soldiers and was fortified with anti-drone jammer systems to thwart aerial attacks. As the battle continued, only three regime military bases remain in the city: the CB Bank, the National League for Democracy (NLD) party office, and the police station.
- Tensions rise after battle between regime forces and RCSS in Shan State
Following a battle between the regime’s army and the Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS) on September 19 in Mai Pyin Township, eastern Shan State, the RCSS has reinforced its military presence, creating a tense situation in the region. According to the RCSS, the conflict began in the afternoon when the regime’s forces, along with over 100 subordinate militias, launched an attack on RCSS troops stationed in the southern part of Mai Pyin Township. The battle, which lasted for an hour, resulted in the death of one regime soldier and four militiamen, according to RCSS reports in Shan language. After the confrontation, the regime’s forces and militias retreated, and the RCSS was able to seize three MA-series rifles.
- Resistance forces raided Kanzi village in Sagaing Region, resulting in casualties and arrests
On the morning of September 19, local resistance forces raided Kanzi village, a base for the regime’s army in Chaung-U Township, Sagaing Region. The village, home to military-backed Pyu Saw Htee members, saw heavy fighting during the raid. Around ten soldiers and Pyu Saw Htee members were reportedly killed, and the resistance forces seized weapons and ammunition. Additionally, a police officer and over fifty people were arrested during the operation. One member of the resistance forces also died in the raid. By 11:00 am, approximately three hours after the battle began, the resistance forces withdrew from Kanzi village. The individuals arrested during the raid remain in custody.
- Local resistance forces targeted regime outposts
The fighting in Sagaing Region is intensifying as local resistance forces engage the regime army outpost and villages in Depayin, Budalin, and Khin-U townships.
On the morning of September 20, joint resistance forces launched an attack on the regime’s Kutaw Camp in Budalin Township. A regime jet fighter dropped seven bombs on the area, while approximately 100 troops were reinforced from Budalin to assist in the defense. Following the military camp in Budalin, the Kutaw Camp serves as a key stronghold for the regime, prompting both ground and air forces to mount a defense against the resistance.
- Intense fighting speculated near Mandalay
Early on September 21, clashes intensified in areas close to Mandalay. Starting around 6:00 am, the regime’s forces launched airstrikes in response to reports of “alleged” advancing PDF columns. Fighter jets were said to be deployed, dropping bombs and providing support with heavy weaponry over the city. Reports indicated that around 60 weapons were in use in the conflict, which is taking place near Thonesal Village in close proximity to Mandalay. The sounds of gunfire are being heard across Mandalay, accompanied by the noise of military vehicles. Residents are remaining vigilant as the situation develops, closely monitoring the escalation of violence in their vicinity.
Sources: Myanmar Now, RFA Burmese, Khit Thit Media, Myaelatt Athan, Towards Media
