A senior official from the People’s Defense Force (PDF) Southern Military Region has confirmed that the joint forces of the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and PDF have successfully captured the entire headquarters of Infantry Battalion 598, located in Nyaung Chaik Htauk village, Shwegyin Township, Bago Region. The final assault concluded at 5 PM on May 8, resulting in the complete control of the battalion headquarters. However, due to ongoing airstrikes and drone attacks by the military council forces, the resistance forces are taking time to conduct thorough clearance operations in the area. The official reported that bodies of military council troops remain scattered throughout the battalion compound, and they are still conducting a detailed inventory of captured weapons and ammunition.
The operation was carried out through coordination between PDF Operation Area 1, Operation Area 2, and KNLA Battalion 7. The exact number of military council casualties and the complete inventory of seized weapons and ammunition are still being assessed, with the Ministry of Defense of the National Unity Government expected to release detailed information soon. Following the loss of the entire battalion headquarters, local residents from Nyaung Chaik Htauk village and surrounding areas have been forced to evacuate and seek shelter in safer locations, anticipating possible severe retaliation from the military council forces. Local sources indicate that civilians continue to flee the area due to concerns about potential military council counterattacks and airstrikes.
