The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has officially announced that four prisoners of war have been released while one died following their capture during the battle at Kan Daunt police station in Pale Township, Sagaing Region. The POWs who were captured during the July 11 battle included Private Ye Kyaw Kyaw from Infantry Battalion 36, Private Nay Htet Lin from Infantry Battalion 255, Police Sub-Lieutenant Shein Ko Ko Kyaw from Kyaukse Police Station in Southern Shan State, and Private Htun Myae Aye from Light Infantry Battalion 50.
Notably, Private Nay Htet Lin was only 15 years old, having been forcibly recruited by the military council while selling barbecue in Yangon. This case clearly demonstrates how the military council is forcibly recruiting even underage children to fill their ranks. The PLA has emphasized that they treat all prisoners of war in accordance with international standards and humanitarian principles, providing medical care to those who are wounded. The organization maintains strict adherence to the Burma Communist Party’s POW policy, ensuring humane treatment and appropriate release timing for captured soldiers.
However, it was reported that Private Soe Thar, who was also captured during the Kan Daunt police station battle, died from illness while in custody. The PLA continues to urge military council soldiers to surrender rather than sacrifice their lives for the dictatorial regime. They have demonstrated their commitment to treating POWs with dignity and respect, providing necessary medical care and maintaining proper detention conditions in line with international standards. This approach stands in stark contrast to the military council’s forced recruitment practices and their treatment of civilians, particularly their targeting of underage youth for military service.
