In the Hukawng Valley, an area where the 14th Battalion of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) from Kachin State often conducts operations, there have been recent incidents of the Min Zin Thant militia set up by the Military Council, apprehending 8 KIA members over a span of several weeks.

According to a resident of Shaduzup village, two KIA soldiers were reported to have been arrested on June 9th, and an additional six suspected KIA soldiers were reportedly apprehended on May 10th.

"In the first week of May, we heard that six KIA members were arrested, and while some have been released, others remain in custody. Those who were freed have not disclosed the circumstances of their release”, the man said.

Six individuals were apprehended in May while roaming the villages of Warazup and Shaduzup. They were identified as members of the 14th, 43rd, and 45th Battalions, belonging to the 2nd Brigade of KIA.

Similarly, on June 9th, two fully armed KIA members were apprehended along the road connecting the camp of Shaduzup-based 297th Light Infantry and Khaunghlaw Creek.

"There have been swirling rumors suggesting that these two individuals, one being a resident of Shaduzup and the other from Warazup, have either defected or been arrested. Presently, the status remains unchanged, as both individuals are yet to be released”, a local told KNG.

One of those arrested on June 9th has been identified as Zaw Sant Aung, a 30-year-old resident of Warazup. The second individual, hailing from Shaduzup village, is yet to be named. KNG is unable to verify independently the reports suggesting that the two arrested KIA have defected to the militia.

Nonetheless, Warazup militia's Telegram channel has claimed that two KIA members have defected, allegedly bringing with them two weapons, 50 rounds of ammunition, and complete military uniforms. The militia has also disseminated propaganda asserting their willingness to pardon and provide appropriate treatment to surrendered adversaries.

Since the start of this year, the Warazup militia group has been detaining inhabitants from Warazup, Shaduzup, Aungyar, Bankaut, and Sanpya villages on allegations of having affiliations with KIA.

According to local sources, the detained villagers were released following the payment of ransoms ranging between 2 million and 5 million kyats.

During April, the militia apprehended 10 civilians, accusing them of alleged involvement with KIA. Some of the individuals endured physical abuse, torture, and interrogations before being released, while others secured their freedom by paying ransoms.

There are indications that the military operations of KIA members may face increased difficulties and challenges due to the escalated arrest activities in surrounding villages carried out by the Min Zin Thant militia, which is operating along the Danai-Ledo Road.