Three new military recruits from Infantry Battalion 599 in Kyaukkyi Township, Bago Region, have defected to revolutionary forces, according to an announcement from the People’s Defense Force Battalion-3 Alaungwar Column. The defection occurred on May 28 after the recruits established prior communication and coordination with revolutionary forces. The three defectors, who were graduates of Training Batch 9, have been identified as Ko Min Min Zaw, Ko Wai Chit, and Ko Myint Zaw Htwe.
The new recruits decided to join the revolution after being forced into military service by the military council. They revealed that morale within the military council’s forces is deteriorating, and soldiers are subjected to various forms of abuse and mistreatment. The Alaungwar Column (Battalion 7803) has provided the defectors with full security protection and necessary assistance. The defectors are being well-cared for and protected by revolutionary comrades.
The defected soldiers encouraged other military personnel within the military council’s forces not to fear joining the revolutionary forces. They confirmed that revolutionary forces do not harm or torture defectors but instead welcome them warmly and provide complete security. The People’s Defense Force has conducted proper verification procedures for the defectors and arranged appropriate accommodations for them. The defectors emphasized that contrary to military council propaganda, revolutionary forces treat defectors with respect and ensure their safety, demonstrating the stark contrast between the oppressive conditions within the military council’s forces and the humanitarian treatment provided by the revolution.
