The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) has reported that fighting broke out in the Naung Cho region after military council forces launched an offensive, despite the Three Brotherhood Alliance’s unilateral ceasefire intended to facilitate effective rescue operations for earthquake victims. According to reports, on April 3rd around noon, military council forces reinforced their positions by deploying seven military vehicles loaded with troops from Intaw to Kyauk Gu, Taung Che, and Amata (902) areas.
The military council forces initiated an offensive near Amata (902) area at 9:55 AM on April 4th, resulting in clashes with the TNLA forces. Additionally, the military council conducted two separate airstrikes using fighter jets on the Seven Mile area in Sadung Gyi Township. Despite the military council’s announcement of a ceasefire from April 2nd to April 22nd and declaring it as a period of national mourning, they continue to conduct daily offensive operations and airstrikes, according to the TNLA’s statement. The military council’s actions contradict their own declared ceasefire, demonstrating a pattern of continued aggression despite public announcements of peaceful intentions.
As of April 3rd, the devastating earthquake that struck on March 28th has resulted in 3,085 deaths, 4,715 injuries, and 341 people reported missing across Myanmar. Local residents point out that the military council’s offensive operations during this time of natural disaster represent additional oppression against the civilian population. Humanitarian aid organizations have expressed concern that military activities in earthquake-affected areas are hampering the delivery of crucial humanitarian assistance at a time when emergency rescue operations are desperately needed. The military council’s continued offensive operations during this critical period of humanitarian crisis demonstrate a disregard for civilian welfare and impede essential relief efforts for earthquake victims.
