Military columns of the terrorist army have managed to penetrate the Kawkareik-Myawaddy road section with assistance from the military-controlled Karen Border Guard Force (BGF). These columns are led by Strategic Commander Colonel Thura Wunna Hlaing, also known as military propaganda scriptwriter Myo Myint Hein Naing. With support from Colonel Saw Chit Thu of the BGF/KNA, which has been designated as a transnational criminal organization by the United States, Colonel Thura Wunna Hlaing’s military columns successfully infiltrated the Asian Highway during late August and early September. However, Strategic Commander Colonel Thura Wunna Hlaing maintains a low profile and operates discreetly.
On November 25, 2024, terrorist leader Min Aung Hlaing awarded Colonel Wunna Hlaing the title of ‘Thura.’ This recognition was granted for his role in preventing the KNLA-led revolutionary forces from capturing the strategic Anan Kwin military base camp located between Thaton and Three Pagodas Pass in Karen State. Colonel Wunna Hlaing is a high-ranking military officer based in Karen State and is well-known for his extensive knowledge of Karen armed groups. Despite operating in the Karen region, he maintains strict secrecy regarding his personal security and family matters.
Due to constant concerns about his own and his family’s safety, he keeps all family-related information strictly confidential. He is particularly careful about preventing outsiders from learning about his personal details and movements. Fearing the leak of his photographs, he doesn’t even use social media under his real name. Colonel Wunna Hlaing is also distinguished for his work in military propaganda and serves as a scriptwriter for military propaganda films. He is the primary scriptwriter for military propaganda films such as ‘Living Fortress’ and ‘A Red Longyi.’
Colonel Wunna Hlaing, alias Myo Myint Hein Naing, is known for making derogatory comments about Aung San Suu Kyi on social media, and his wife is a hardcore member of the Union Solidarity and Development Party. After penetrating the Asian Highway and projecting an image of military success, Colonel Wunna Hlaing continues to maintain a low profile while writing more propaganda scripts for upcoming military anniversary events, fearing potential assassination attempts. He remains in hiding while continuing his work for the military regime.
