19 May 2026 – State Security and Peace Commission (SSPC) troops burnt at least 28 civilian homes in Chuncung village, Chin State, between 14 May and 18 May, while preventing displaced residents from returning to their community along the Falam-Hakha Road.
The destruction was reported to have occurred as SSPC forces entered the village to secure the vital Falam-Hakha route. The pattern of arson began on 14 May with nine houses burned, followed by 14 more on 15 May, and an additional five homes on 18 May.
The incidents follow intense fighting in the area, with fighting on 18 May near Hniarlawn (New) village and the Tiphul road area, involving Chin resistance forces and SSPC reinforcements, with casualties reported on both sides.
Earlier, on 15 May 15, a sniper attack by Chin resistance forces near Chuncung village reportedly killed 11 SSPC personnel. Separately, on 16 May, sources indicate SSPC forces apprehended local resident Nam Ceu and Baptist pastor Rev. William while they were traveling.
These actions align with reports of SSPC forces using the burning of civilian homes as a tactic during their military offensive to reclaim control of the Falam-Hakha corridor. The current aggression is part of the SSPC’s broader campaign to restore administrative control following recent military setbacks in the region.
The ongoing conflict continues to fuel a regional humanitarian crisis, with widespread insecurity, movement restrictions, and displacement affecting thousands of civilians across Chin State. The conflict has intensified with SSPC forces relying on air power and indiscriminate air and drone attacks, frequently targeting non-military sites. – Reporting by Daniel
