The coup junta has begun deploying recently trained conscripts for area clearance operations in Ye Township, the only area in Mon State currently under martial law, according to local sources and the Mon State Revolutionary Force (MSRF).
On June 28, the first batch of recruits under the conscription law completed their training at military depots overseen by regional junta commands. Shortly thereafter, in early July, they were sent to various locations needing military presence.
Among them, recruits likely aimed for the 19th Military Operations Command (MOC-19) in Ye Township, were transported to their assignments via waterways and civilian vehicles.
"Most recruits here underwent training with MOC-19, joining battalions of approximately 50 to 100 soldiers each. The junta has deployed three battalions in the area, with operations beginning about two weeks ago," an MSRF source reported.
In Ye Township, both existing junta troops and these new recruits are conducting thorough security checks on civilians, leading to disruptions for the local population.
MSRF spokesperson Nai Naga accused the junta of commandeering trucks, typically used for construction materials, to transport recruits for deployments in Ye Township.
Nai Naga added that recruits arrived in Ye from Yangon aboard three or four ships, although he could not confirm if those trained in Weakali, Mon State, were among them.
The junta has quietly reassigned recruits trained across various states and regions to different infantry and light infantry battalions and divisions.
According to The Irrawaddy news agency, the junta has directed at least 340 recruits to MOC-19 battalions.
Nai Naga noted that the junta has initiated security and clearance operations in and around Ye Township, combining seasoned soldiers with new recruits.
"By integrating veterans with newcomers, the junta has established additional security posts around Ye. They are now conducting stricter patrols and phone checks on civilians, which is unprecedented in this area," he said.
In Ye Township, 13 junta battalions, including those under MOC-19, are deployed.
Ye also remains a focal point of activity for ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) and resistance groups.
Since last year, a coalition of resistance forces has gained control over sections of the Ye-Dawei Road, diminishing junta influence in those areas. As a consequence, the junta has relied heavily on water transport due to safety concerns on land routes.
Now, the junta is restarting area clearance operations to regain control lost over the past six months, with the aid of new recruits.
Nai Naga emphasized that resistance forces are committed to eradicate the junta’s control and will escalate operations as they mobilize resources and manpower.
