A new recruit from a battalion under Division 99 based in Meiktila Township, Mandalay Region, has defected to the people’s side with weapons on March 7, according to an official from Battalion 2, Military Region 1 in Minbu District. The new soldier brought with him an MA-type rifle, 96 rounds of ammunition, 3 magazines, a water bottle, snacks, and shoes when he defected.
The official from Battalion 2 in Minbu District confirmed that the defecting soldier has been awarded a monetary reward, though the amount was not disclosed for security reasons. The soldier is currently serving with the resistance forces. The official emphasized that as the military council continues to forcibly recruit civilians and use them as porters, they encourage other military personnel wanting to leave to join the people’s side. The security of the defector’s family members is being carefully protected, which is why personal details are being withheld.
Battalion 2 in Minbu District continues to welcome military council soldiers who wish to join the people’s side, offering monetary rewards for those who defect with weapons. There has been an increasing number of soldiers leaving the oppressive conditions under the military council, with resistance forces providing necessary assistance to those who defect. The battalion maintains strict protocols to ensure the safety and security of defectors and their families while integrating them into resistance operations. This latest defection represents a continuing trend of military personnel choosing to stand with the people rather than participate in the military council’s campaign of violence against civilians.
