A military column entering Nga Tharauk sub-township in Nyaung-U District, Mandalay Region, was ambushed by revolutionary forces, resulting in the death of 74 soldiers and militia members, with the entire column being destroyed, according to a spokesperson from the Bagan Bilu Force. The battle took place on March 14 at 1:30 PM when resistance forces intercepted the military column between Htauk Wa and Ohyin villages. During the engagement, 69 soldiers were killed on the spot, while 5 additional soldiers and militia members who were severely wounded and transported to Nyaung-U Hospital later died on the morning of March 16.
The military column consisted of approximately 80 personnel and was completely decimated during the battle. Only three soldiers managed to escape by forcibly seizing motorcycles from civilians and fleeing to the Nga Tharauk police station. The resistance forces also captured a significant cache of weapons and ammunition during the operation. Although the military council attempted to provide air support during the battle, their aircraft arrived only after the fighting had concluded and the resistance forces had already retreated to secure locations, preventing any aerial bombardment. The successful operation was led by PDF Military Commander Comrade Byat Wi from the Bagan Bilu Force and Comrade Nga Tae, with joint participation from various resistance groups including the Bagan Bilu Force, Burmese Guerrilla Force, Thaung Tha Township PDF, Scorpion People Defense Force, Nyaung-U District Battalion 5, and Myingyan District Battalion 3.
During the battle, one resistance fighter was killed and another was wounded. Additionally, the Bagan Bilu Force has issued a warning about fraudulent activities in the Nyaung-U District, where some individuals are falsely using their name to collect donations and extort money from civilians. The force has requested the public to report any such incidents through their official channels. They emphasized that they have not authorized any sub-groups and do not engage in threatening civilians for money. The force has advised that those wishing to provide genuine support can do so safely through their official Page Messenger.
