A lance corporal and 18 soldiers from the military council forces operating in the Chin mountains near Kalay city in Sagaing Region have defected to the Ranger Kalay Defend Force, bringing with them three firearms and ammunition. According to a spokesperson from the Ranger Kalay Defend Force, these defections occurred gradually between May and July. Among the defectors, 18 soldiers were civilians who had been forcibly conscripted into military service, while one was a lance corporal. The revolutionary forces have confirmed that these individuals were victims of the military council’s forced recruitment practices.
The defectors brought with them three small arms, 800 rifle rounds, 20 magazines, and 8 hand grenades. In recognition of their defection with weapons, the revolutionary forces have awarded them a reward of 5 million kyats. Currently, the revolutionary forces are providing comprehensive support for the defectors, including accommodation, healthcare, and assistance in maintaining contact with their families. Special security arrangements have also been put in place to ensure their safety and protection. The revolutionary forces are particularly focused on ensuring these former soldiers can transition safely into civilian life while maintaining their security.
According to revolutionary force officials, these defections are primarily driven by human rights violations within the military, physical abuse, poor living conditions, and psychological pressure within the military council’s forces. Particularly for those who were forcibly recruited, the opportunity to escape from involuntary service has been a major motivating factor in their decision to defect. The revolutionary forces have provided full security guarantees for these defectors and are ensuring their future safety and well-being. The defectors are being treated with dignity and respect, with special attention being paid to their physical and mental well-being as they adjust to their new circumstances under the protection of the revolutionary forces.
