A historic event unfolded in Banmauk Township, Sagaing Region, where a soldier from the Shanni National Army (SNA), an ethnic armed organization, voluntarily defected to the people’s side with his weapons and ammunition. The incident occurred on September 8th, when Private Aung Min Lwin approached the People’s Defense Force (PDF) of Banmauk Township to surrender. He brought with him combat equipment including one AK rifle and two hundred and twenty rounds of ammunition.
The People’s Defense Force of Banmauk Township held a special ceremony on September 13th to recognize Private Aung Min Lwin’s courageous decision. During the ceremony, he was awarded a recognition payment of 7.9 million kyats. Such defections play a crucial role in the success of the people’s revolution, and the participation of ethnic armed organization soldiers on the people’s side continues to strengthen the revolutionary forces.
This incident represents a significant development amid the ongoing conflicts and political dynamics in the Sagaing Region, serving as an example of the relationship between People’s Defense Forces and ethnic armed organizations. The Banmauk Township PDF continues to welcome such defections and remains committed to collaborative efforts toward ending the military dictatorship system. The event highlights the growing momentum of the resistance movement and the increasing instances of military personnel choosing to stand with the people rather than continue serving under the military council’s command.
