“The Chin Defense Force (CDF-Asho) has confirmed the capture of 23 soldiers from the military council who fled from the Nat Ye Kan Air Defense Base in Ngape Township, Magway Region, along with their weapons and ammunition. Over a three-day period from February 24 to 26, CDF-Asho forces intercepted and arrested the fleeing soldiers in a forested area approximately 2,000 meters north of the Nat Ye Kan communications tower. The soldiers had abandoned their posts following offensive operations by the Arakan Army in the area. The captured military equipment included 20 small arms consisting of 13 MA-1 rifles, one MA-2 rifle, three MA-3 rifles, two MA-11 rifles, and one MA-5 rifle. Additionally, 18 hand grenades, 12 EY rounds, over 4,000 rounds of ammunition, and other military supplies were seized during the operation. Initial interrogation of the captured soldiers revealed that they fled due to ongoing battles in the area. The CDF-Asho spokesperson emphasized that this was not a case of voluntary surrender or defection to the resistance forces, but rather a successful interception operation where the resistance forces utilized their superior knowledge of the local terrain. According to reports, many of the military council soldiers show little interest in engaging in combat operations. Some are serving only for their salaries, while others are stationed on the front lines due to family circumstances. In light of this, CDF-Asho has extended an invitation to military council soldiers in the Nat Ye Kan area to make contact with revolutionary forces and consider defecting to their side. Salai Ro Chin, the CDF-Asho information officer, noted that modern communication technology has made it easier for military personnel to contact resistance forces through platforms like Facebook and other communication channels. He emphasized that those who choose to defect will be welcomed by both the resistance forces and the general public with understanding and acceptance. The resistance forces continue to maintain pressure on military council positions in the Nat Ye Kan area while simultaneously offering safe passage to those willing to abandon their posts. This recent capture represents a significant tactical success for the resistance movement and demonstrates the growing challenges faced by military council forces in maintaining control over their positions and personnel in the region.
