The Taungoo District 1st Brigade, under the Ministry of Defense of the National Unity Government (NUG), has taken control of up to 26 villages in Bago Region's Taungoo District, initiating administrative operations in those areas.
A battalion commander told Mizzima "By the end of 2023, we've gained control over 26 villages, currently, accurate records are only available for 26. The administration responsibilities for the controlled area, which includes these villages, are designated to the People's Administrative Office -Yoma sub-region”, he said.
He mentioned that he did not want to disclose the townships and specific locations of these villages, citing concerns about potential security risks.
NUG has successfully implemented administrations, as well as healthcare, education, and judicial sectors in these controlled areas.
"In our responsible area, we've adopted judicial procedures blending village customs with official methods from the administrative department. So far we haven't encountered any major crimes in our region so far”, the commander said.
Additionally, in the healthcare sector, two volunteers were chosen from every controlled village. These volunteers are undergoing community-based basic health care and treatment courses taught by a doctor. As of now, three batches have successfully completed the training.
"In fact, we've been grappling with these issues for two years, dedicating significant efforts to both the combat sector and aiding the local and war-displaced population. The support from NUG and the Ministry has been substantial, but given the vast areas, it's challenging for NUG alone to provide sufficient assistance. External help is also needed”, he told Mizzima.
Taungoo District comprises the townships of Taungoo, Yedashe, Phyu, Oktwin, and Htantabin. Based on the district boundary, it shares borders with Naypyidaw, the headquarters and stronghold of the coup Military Council.
The Ministry of Defense of NUG is currently overseeing operations in the southern sub-Military Region of Military Region No. 2, with the objective of gaining control over sections of the Yangon-Mandalay Road and the Sittaung River basin, as informed to the public by NUG.
In late 2023, the resistance forces escalated the momentum of combat operations in the eastern part of Bago Region, successfully engaging in battles to seize the towns of Mone and Natthkanwin.
Taungoo District, housing Taungoo District 1st Brigade controlled People's Administrative Office-Yoma sub-region, a territory managed by the People's Administrative Office-Yoma sub-region, is considered by military analysts as a strategic entry point with the potential to directly threaten Naypyidaw in military aspects.
