Fleeing Junta Soldiers Killed as Resistance Forces Consolidate Gains in Southern Myanmar
At least seven soldiers from the Myanmar military were killed on Thursday after resistance forces intercepted troops fleeing from a strategic base that fell earlier this week in Tanintharyi Region.
The Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and its allies captured the Win Wa base—a stronghold held by the military for over 30 years—on 11 March. According to a statement released by the KNU’s Brigade 4 on Friday morning, a follow-up operation was launched at 10:30 local time on 14 March to target junta personnel retreating from the area.
Resistance forces reported seizing a significant haul of weaponry during the ambush, including five MA-1 rifles, three MA-3 rifles, and several other firearms along with ammunition.
A deputy commander from the Tanintharyi Region PDF Command confirmed the reports to the Myanmar Pressphoto Agency (MPA), stating that the situation remains volatile. “The fighting is ongoing,” the official said. “We are engaging both the soldiers fleeing from Win Wa and the reinforcement columns sent to assist them.”
According to resistance intelligence, the military has dispatched approximately 210 reinforcement troops from Light Infantry Battalions 404 and 405 based in Thayetchaung in an attempt to stabilize the front.
In response to the loss of the Win Wa base, the Myanmar military has launched a sustained aerial campaign. Sources report that airstrikes have occurred almost daily since early February, utilizing 150lb, 250lb, and 500lb bombs, as well as strafing runs from jet fighters.
The deputy commander noted that these strikes have not been limited to active combat zones. “They are bombing areas completely unrelated to the military theater,” he said. The aerial offensive has reportedly resulted in at least two civilian deaths, though specific details regarding the casualties have not been released due to security concerns.
The fall of Win Wa, located in Min Dat village along the vital No. 8 Highway, represents a major tactical shift in southern Myanmar. The highway serves as a critical artery between the cities of Dawei and Myeik.
The successful siege and subsequent pursuit of junta forces involved a broad coalition, including KNLA units from Brigades 4 and 6, special commando forces, and several battalions under the shadow National Unity Government (NUG).
While the military council has not officially commented on the losses, the continued use of heavy airpower suggests a desperate attempt to prevent a total collapse of their defensive lines in Tanintharyi Region.
Note: The reported soldier fatalities have not been independently verified.
