The Karen National Union (KNU) has officially announced the capture of 26 prisoners of war (POWs) during two separate battles in Taungsu and Taungwe within the Nyaunglebin District of Bago Region. On June 25, the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and allied forces launched an attack on military council troops stationed in Taungsu village, Mone Township, Nyaunglebin District, resulting in the capture of 23 POWs along with a significant cache of weapons and ammunition.
Additionally, in a separate engagement at Taungwe village in Kyaukkyi Township, forces captured three more POWs along with military equipment. According to the KNU, the majority of these captured soldiers were individuals who had been forcibly conscripted by the military council, while some were servicemen who had completed their terms and were unwilling to continue their military service.
The KNU has reported that they are treating all POWs in accordance with international standards and humanitarian principles, maintaining detailed records of their personal information. The organization has implemented a comprehensive management system for the captured personnel, facilitating the return of those who wish to go back to their homes when security conditions permit. For those unable to return due to security concerns or those who choose not to return, the KNU is actively working to secure suitable employment opportunities. The organization has also issued a warning to the public about the military council’s dissemination of false information on social media platforms, urging people to remain vigilant against such propaganda.
