The People’s Defense Department reports significant losses for the Military Council in a series of attacks led by the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and allied forces in Kyaukgyi Township. Over three days, coordinated strikes, including drone attacks, resulted in substantial casualties and damaged the military’s advance.
Over 30 Military Council Members Killed in Fierce Clashes in Kyaukgyi Township
The People’s Defense Department confirmed that more than 30 Military Council soldiers were killed, and dozens were injured during a multi-day confrontation in Kyaukgyi Township as revolutionary forces launched well-coordinated assaults on retreating military columns.
Kyaukgyi Township Sees Intense Clashes and Heavy Casualties
Fighting erupted in Kyaukgyi Township from October 29 to November 1, as the KNLA and affiliated forces targeted an army column of over 100 Military Council soldiers retreating from Kyaukgyi to Natsamkyung. These forces were comprised of coastal and Triangle Army units stationed at Kyaukgyi.
Coordinated Drone Attacks Amplify Casualties
According to a representative from the Special Commando Battalion, the use of drones led to devastating results for the Military Council’s forces. The initial engagement occurred on October 29, when KNLA-led forces ambushed the retreating column, leaving over 30 soldiers dead and 20 wounded.
The October 29 Battle
On October 29 at 5:30 a.m., the battle commenced near Kyunkone village. By 7:30 a.m., the KNLA and allied forces had cleared the area, recovering supplies and ammunition. An estimated 10 Military Council soldiers lost their lives, with several more injured.
The Battle Intensifies on October 30
The fighting resumed on October 30 at 5:00 a.m., as Military Council troops attempted to reach the island village of Gyi In. Unable to breach the village, the Military Council divided into three columns to enter the area with both large and small arms. However, a well-prepared ambush by KNLA and the Roma 2 commando group led to intense combat that lasted throughout the day.
Strategic Ambush and Heavy Losses
The ambush inflicted significant damage, leaving three Military Council bodies behind and capturing a sergeant’s body. During this confrontation, more than 12 soldiers were killed, and over 10 were injured. The revolutionary forces reported only one minor injury among their ranks.
November 1: Drone Attacks Continue
The clashes continued into November 1, with revolutionary forces, including Roma 1, Roma 2, and the Phyupakafa group, launching another round of attacks on the Military Council troops. Drone assaults inflicted further damage on the Military Council forces as they tried to advance into a village within Kyaukgyi Township.
Air Support Efforts
Around midday, two air defense jets arrived to provide support for the Military Council. However, accidental strikes on their own forces caused disarray, leading to the withdrawal of the aircraft back to the Taung Ngu Air Force base.
Continued Losses Lead to Retreat
With heavy losses mounting, the Military Council forces eventually withdrew to Kyaukgyi town. In this third day of fighting, more than 10 soldiers from the Military Council were reported killed, with over 15 others injured.
Three Days of Fighting Result in Substantial Losses for Military Council
The People’s Defense Department estimates that over the three days of combat, a total of more than 50 Military Council soldiers were killed and a significant number wounded. Revolutionary forces captured essential supplies and military equipment, further weakening the Military Council’s position.
Coordinated Forces and Revolutionary Tactics
The revolutionary forces’ collaborative approach, including the KNLA’s Roma 2, drone teams, and ground commandos, played a crucial role in their success. The revolutionary factions continue to strengthen their efforts, capturing both resources and military equipment from the opposing side.
Escalating Tensions in Kyaukgyi Township
The intense skirmishes in Kyaukgyi Township underline the growing tensions in the region. Revolutionary forces, armed with advanced tactics and technologies, have inflicted heavy casualties on the Military Council, capturing supplies and destabilizing military operations. As political and military pressures build, the region remains a hotspot for ongoing conflict.
