A new military recruit who recently graduated from Training Batch 8 at Infantry Battalion 431 based in Chamauk Gyi Township, Tanintharyi Region, has defected to Battalion 3 of the People’s Defense Force in Myeik District, Strategic Area 35 under the Tanintharyi Military Command on May 15, bringing weapons with him. The soldier, identified as Chit Ko from Myawaddy, was initially forced into service as a porter before being compelled to attend Training Batch 8 and subsequently assigned to Infantry Battalion 431.
When defecting, Private Chit Ko brought with him one MA-1 rifle, 147 rounds of ammunition, and three ammunition magazines. He was welcomed by Battalion Commander Ae Gyi of the Myeik District People’s Defense Force Battalion 3. Officials stated that arrangements are being made to provide reward money for defecting with weapons. Additionally, they reported that many other officers are in contact with revolutionary forces, and there is significant demoralization within the military council’s ranks, with some personnel facing threats against their families.
Fighting has been ongoing for about five months near Thein Khun village along the Htone Kha-Maw Taung road in Tanintharyi Township between revolutionary alliance forces and a military council column of approximately 300 troops. The military council has suffered numerous casualties, leading to an increase in defections to revolutionary forces. The commander of Battalion 103 attempted to flee from the front line but was captured by Battalion 1 of the Myeik District People’s Defense Force.
A total of 14 military council soldiers have defected to various battalions under the Tanintharyi Military Command during April and May. Those who defect with weapons are being provided with reward money. The battalions have extended an open invitation to military council soldiers to defect and join forces with the people at any time.
