Myanmar Military Captures Resistance Headquarters and Ten Bases in Southern Jungle Operation

Myanmar's military has captured a key resistance command headquarters and 10 other bases in the southern part of the country following a six-day jungle operation. State-run newspaper Myanma Alinn reported that the offensive took place along the border between Mon state and the Bago region, marking a major setback for pro-democracy armed groups and ethnic militias.

The Captured Bases

The seized locations include the special region command headquarters of the opposition National Unity Government and a battalion headquarters belonging to the Karen National Liberation Army. State media published photographs of soldiers alongside captured ammunition, small arms, vehicles, drones, and computers recovered after four armed engagements. The military-backed government, which took office in April following controversial elections earlier this year, has increased ground activity and airstrikes to reclaim regions held by resistance fighters.

Background

The People's Defense Force, which is the armed wing of the National Unity Government, formed after the military seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021. That takeover triggered widespread protests that were met with violent suppression, ultimately leading to the ongoing civil war as various armed groups fight the central government for greater autonomy.

Context

Civil conflicts involving state militaries and ethnic armed groups often center around control of remote jungle terrain and border regions. Myanmar has experienced widespread internal fighting since the 2021 coup, with opposition forces and ethnic militias frequently clashing with government troops.