The People’s Defense Force (PDF) Battalion 1002 from Pekon has officially announced the successful capture of a military camp in Saung Pyaung village, Pinlaung Township, Southern Shan State. During the operation, multiple casualties were reported including a Pa-O National Organization (PNO) militia major, while numerous prisoners of war and significant amounts of weapons and ammunition were seized.
The Karenni revolutionary allied forces launched their offensive against the camp, which was jointly held by military troops and PNO militia, on May 17. Despite the military council’s attempts to defend the position using airstrikes and heavy artillery support, the revolutionary forces successfully captured the camp on May 26. The battle resulted in significant casualties, including many Pa-O youths who had been forcibly conscripted into military service.
Military tensions in the region remain high following the battle, with resistance sources warning that although the military council forces have temporarily withdrawn, they may be preparing for a counterattack. Local civilians are advised to remain vigilant when traveling in the area. During the offensive operations, some resistance fighters sustained injuries in the fighting. The joint operation involved Battalion 1002 of Pekon PDF working alongside other allied revolutionary forces.
In the aftermath of losing the camp, military council troops and PNO militia forces have begun burning civilian homes in Saung Pyaung village, forcing all residents to flee to safety. These acts of violence have resulted in the destruction of civilian property and created an urgent need for humanitarian assistance. The situation highlights the ongoing pattern of the military council’s retaliatory actions against civilian populations in areas where they lose strategic positions to revolutionary forces. The displacement of villagers and destruction of civilian infrastructure continues to create significant humanitarian challenges in the region.
