A military ship convoy carrying jade was attacked with rockets and mortars between Mingin and Kani townships in Sagaing Region, according to an official from the People’s Defense Force Battalion 3 of Monywa District. The attack took place on August 19, targeting a convoy of 28 military vessels transporting jade from Katha Township. The resistance forces used 107mm rockets and other weapons in the assault that occurred between Mingin and Kani townships.
While there were reported casualties on the military side, the exact numbers could not be confirmed. The resistance forces successfully withdrew from the operation without any casualties. According to the official, the military was transporting jade from Katha Township downstream toward Mawlaik and Kalewa, with a significant number of troops aboard the 28 vessels. The movement was reportedly part of a military reinforcement effort for offensive operations in Sagaing Region. Some military vessels were damaged in the attack, though none were sunk. The resistance forces had to withdraw after the military responded with Point 5 heavy weapons fire. Villages along the Chindwin River have been evacuated due to the conflict. The jade shipment was reportedly associated with three companies collaborating with the military.
The operation was led by Monywa District Battalion 3, in coordination with the Kani Township Mahura Tiger People’s Defense Force and the Justice Brothers Force of Monywa District Battalion 18. In a separate incident, the BDL PDF reported a successful attack on a military column that left from Khamyint village in Ayadaw Township, resulting in four military casualties. The August 11 afternoon attack targeted a military column of 84 personnel, resulting in injuries to nine soldiers, including an officer believed to be a company commander.
The coordinated attacks demonstrate the ongoing resistance operations against military forces in the Sagaing Region. The resistance forces continue to target military supply lines and troop movements, while local civilians face displacement due to the conflict. The military’s transportation of jade through the region highlights the connection between natural resource exploitation and military operations, with several companies reportedly working in partnership with the military forces. The resistance forces maintain their strategic operations while attempting to minimize civilian casualties and protect local communities from military operations.
