A full-day battle between the Military Council and the Chin National Front/Chin Nation Army (CNF/CNA) in Thantlang Township of Chin State resulted in the tragic death of 13 comrades from the Chin resistance joint forces, with 10 others sustaining injuries, according to Salai Htet Ni, a spokesperson for CNF/CNA.
According to eyewitnesses, the Military Council loaded the wounded onto three military ambulances along with several other vehicles and departed from Thantlang in the direction of Hakha.
Initiated at approximately 5:00 AM on August 28th, an offensive operation was collaboratively undertaken by CNF/CNA-Thantlang and the Chin Defense Force (Zo-Pe) with the aim of targeting a Military Council battalion stationed in Thantlang. During the confrontation, the Military Council fortified its defenses at four key positions and responded with a combination of intense artillery prowess.
"Our side, including CNA-Thantlang, CNA-Hakha, and Zo-Pe CDF, teamed up for a joint offensive. The enemy dispersed across various points in their defense. Amidst the battle, their jet aircraft conducted bombing runs. Our combined forces endured significant damage from the bombardment, resulting in the unfortunate loss of 13 comrades and causing injuries. While we lack precise information about enemy casualties, we anticipate a substantial number”, Salai Htet Ni told Khonumthung News.
Among the Chin resistance fighters, 6 comrades from CNF and 7 members of CDF bravely sacrificed their lives. While an estimated 30 casualties and numerous injuries are presumed on the Military Council's side, confirmation is still pending.
The defensive line set up in Thantlang by the Military Council spans across four key positions, which have been fortified and backed by air and artillery support. In two attempts during August, the Chin resistance fighters aimed to breach these points, employing drones as well. Regrettably, on both occasions, they encountered intense shelling and airstrikes from the Military Council, resulting in casualties among the Chin revolutionary forces, prompting them to withdraw.
"Losses were incurred on both sides during the battle. While we have seized some weapons, the exact amount is yet to be determined. The potential for ongoing conflict remains, and both our forces and the enemy are diligently preparing”, Salai Htet Ni said.
On August 14th, a collaborative effort involving CNF/CNA, Thantlang CDF, Zo-Pe CDF, and Hualngorma CDF resulted in an attack on the Military Council's Haukabung outpost in Thantlang. This operation led to the demise of 3 Military Council soldiers, while 2 were taken captive alive.
During that engagement, the Chin resistance forces secured two rocket-propelled grenade launchers (RPGs), three rifles, and a cache of ammunition. Furthermore, a significant number of Military Council soldiers sustained injuries and were subsequently admitted to Hakha Hospital.
