Myanmar's military has reportedly recaptured the strategic town of Nawnghkio from rebel forces, marking a significant shift in the country's northeast. State-media reported the victory, which comes after nearly a year of the town being under the control of the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA). The TNLA is part of the Three Brotherhood Alliance, an alliance of ethnic militias.
Nawnghkio's strategic importance lies in its location on a major highway connecting central Myanmar to China. The town's recapture is a rare victory for the military government, which has largely been on the defensive against various rebel groups in the ongoing civil war. The military reportedly captured the town after nearly 11 months of operations.
According to state-run media, the military reported over 500 armed engagements, including 20 major clashes, during the operation. The report stated that 171 members of the TNLA and its allies were killed, and their ammunition was seized. The military is now working to restore administrative functions, clear landmines, and facilitate the safe return of displaced residents.
The TNLA has not yet commented on the situation. Independent confirmation of the military's claim is difficult due to reporting restrictions. However, the TNLA did state on a messaging app that they had relocated their civil administration offices in Nawnghkio due to the military's offensive.
The Three Brotherhood Alliance, which includes the TNLA, has been fighting for greater autonomy from the central government for decades. They are loosely allied with the People’s Defense Force, a pro-democracy resistance group that emerged after the military seized power in 2021. Since late 2023, the alliance has controlled significant territory in northeastern and western Myanmar.
The recapture of Nawnghkio follows the TNLA's rejection of the military's demands to withdraw from several towns, including Nawnghkio, during talks brokered by China. China seeks to maintain good relations with both sides, but is concerned about the instability caused by the rebel groups, given its significant investments in Myanmar.
The military's victory in Nawnghkio comes shortly after they claimed to have retaken the strategic town of Mobye. Myanmar has been in turmoil since the 2021 coup, which led to widespread protests and the current civil war. The opposition's National Unity Government believes the military is attempting to regain control of areas before a planned general election.
5 Comments
Raphael
They won't restore anything good... I'm not sure I'm ok with that now.
Michelangelo
This is a desperate attempt by the military to look strong before the international community.
Raphael
This will help with trade and traffic safety, which is important for the country's economy.
Michelangelo
The military is trying to clean up the mess these rebel groups are causing.
Raphael
Good news for stability. We need to see the country unified and peace restored.