Hundreds of junta troops killed in southern Chin offensive, CPU/CPA says; prisoners and weapons seized

Photo – Weapons and ammunition seized during the fighting. The Chinland Protection Force/Chinland Defence Force (CPF/CDF) announced today (July 2) that hundreds of junta troops were killed in clashes in Mindat and Kanpetlet townships in southern Chin State, which have been ongoing for nearly two months. Prisoners of war, weapons, ammunition, and military equipment were also seized. According to the CPF/CDF, the junta forces launched an offensive with thousands of troops and People's Militia from Magway Region's Yaw area and Saw Township into Mindat and Kanpetlet areas starting on May 16. The Yaw Defence Force (YDF), Yaw Army (YA), and allied forces jointly intercepted and counter-attacked these columns. "We can say hundreds were killed. It is difficult to confirm the exact number. Some were buried in the forest, and some were transported back and cremated. This includes those who died after being injured, so we say hundreds were killed," Salai Yo Man, a spokesperson for the CPF/CDF, told Mizzima. The CPF/CDF has also released photos of the bodies of junta troops allegedly killed in the fighting, as well as captured prisoners of war, weapons, ammunition, and military equipment. The Mindat and Kanpetlet areas are located on the main land route from Magway Region's Yaw area into southern Chin State, and are important areas for the junta forces in terms of troop and supply transportation. Military analysts believe that the junta forces have intensified their offensive to regain control of the area. According to the CPF/CDF, the junta forces, which suffered losses in ground battles, have intensified airstrikes, heavy artillery shelling, and drone attacks, carrying out over 600 airstrikes in the nearly two months from mid-May to early July. The CPF/CDF stated that these attacks resulted in civilian casualties, including women and children, and the destruction of homes and public buildings. The CPF/CDF includes CDF – Mindat, CDF- Kanpetlet, CDF – Matupu (Brigade-1), and CDF – Daai. It is a member of the Chin Brothers (CB) and has a close allied relationship with the Arakan Army (AA).