13 May 2026 – Military tensions are escalating near Tonzang town in Chin State as the State Security and Peace Commission (SSPC) military forces and allied Zomi Revolutionary Army-Eastern Command (ZRA-EC) troops advance toward the resistance-controlled town, according to local and resistance sources.
Although major ground clashes had not yet erupted as of 13 May, both sides reportedly exchanged drone attacks near the Zalui stream area south of Tedim township, where one Chin resistance fighter was slightly injured.
Sources said the offensive force includes around 500-600 SSPC troops from Tedim-based LIB 269 and nearly 200 ZRA-EC fighters, who began advancing toward Tonzang town on 11 May after reinforcing troops and ammunition in Tedim town.
Chin resistance groups defending Tonzang town warned that major fighting could break out soon and said allied forces remain ready to reinforce the town if necessary.
Local sources reported that the offensive is linked to SSPC leader Min Aung Hlaing’s reported “100-day plan” to retake resistance-held towns, including Tonzang town.
Amid fears of escalating conflict, many elderly residents, women, and children have fled Tonzang town, while the Tedim-Tonzang Road has remained indefinitely closed since 11 May due to security concerns. – Reporting by Daniel
