A new recruit from a battalion under Division 99 based in Meiktila Township, Mandalay Region, has defected to Battalion 2 in Minbu District on March 7, bringing weapons and ammunition with him. The soldier brought an MA-type rifle, 96 rounds of ammunition, three magazines, a water bottle, snacks, and shoes when he joined the people’s side.
According to an official from Battalion 2, Military Region 1 in Minbu District, the defecting soldier has been awarded a monetary reward, though the amount was not disclosed for security reasons. The soldier’s personal information is being kept confidential for safety concerns. It was confirmed that the defector will continue serving with the battalion forces that welcomed him.
The official emphasized that soldiers from within the military council’s forces are encouraged to join the people’s side, given the council’s practices of forced conscription, porter recruitment, and violent oppression of civilians. Battalion 2 in Minbu District continues to welcome military council soldiers who wish to align with the people, and monetary rewards are offered to those who defect with weapons and ammunition. This defection represents another instance of military personnel choosing to stand with civilians rather than continue serving under the military council that has been committing violence against its own people.
