8 April 2026 – Clashes between the State Security and Peace Commission (SSPC) troops and a coalition of Chin revolutionary groups have intensified into a near-daily conflict in the Lumbang village area of Falam township, Chin State.
The fighting, which has persisted since late 2025, reflects a prolonged stalemate where the junta’s ground offensives have been repeatedly repelled.
According to a representative from the Chin National Defence Force (CNDF) speaking to The Rihli Voice, the junta troops, stationed on a ridge near Lumbang, have suffered significant ground losses and are increasingly relying on aerial and heavy weapon bombardment.
“The fighting is almost constant. The SSPC, suffering heavy losses on the ground, is constantly deploying drones and heavy artillery to indiscriminately bomb areas,” the CNDF representative stated.
The CNDF also confirmed casualties and injuries on both sides during April, noting that three junta soldiers have defected and joined the revolutionary forces this week.
Further reports suggest the junta forces are attempting to consolidate their position by linking up with troops in Khuangli village from their base near Lumbang.
The escalating number of wounded junta soldiers has reportedly overwhelmed the Kalay General Hospital, though these specific reports remain unconfirmed.
The junta’s primary objectives were to break the resistance, regain control of key infrastructure like the Surbung Airport, and project an image of authority by reopening government offices and high schools in Falam town by April 2026.
However, the persistent and coordinated resistance from the joint Chin revolutionary forces along the offensive routes has thwarted the junta’s advance.
To date, the SSPC has failed to reach Falam town, undermining the political goals of its leader, Min Aung Hlaing, who seized power in the February 2021 coup and holds the internationally unrecognized title of acting president.
The SSPC continues its use of aerial bombardments and ground attacks in the region. – Reporting by Daniel
