Lieutenant Colonel Thant Naing Htay, also known as Hein Lat Htay, who was serving in Myawaddy District of Karen State, died from injuries sustained in combat, although his family has issued statements claiming his death was due to illness. The 42-year-old Lieutenant Colonel, a graduate of the Defense Services Academy Intake 45, was a resident of Sumala 5th Street, Ward 2, North Okkalapa Township in Yangon Region.
After sustaining injuries during a battle while stationed in Myawaddy, he was transported to Yangon on April 4. He was subsequently admitted to the 1000-bed Military Hospital in Mingaladon for treatment. After thirteen days of medical care, he passed away on April 17, and his funeral was held on April 19. While the actual cause of death was confirmed to be combat-related injuries, his family has been circulating statements claiming that he died from a medical condition.
According to a close friend of the deceased, while the family maintains that he died from pancreatic disease, sources within military circles have confirmed that his death resulted from injuries sustained during combat operations. His remains were carried by Ma Ba Tha monks during the funeral proceedings. He is survived by his wife, Hema Soe Min, and his daughter, Oak Pyae Khin, who currently resides in Singapore. The deceased Lieutenant Colonel was known to be strongly opposed to the National League for Democracy and Aung San Suu Kyi, frequently claiming that they were responsible for the country’s deterioration.
