20 May 2026 – The State Security and Peace Commission (SSPC) military and its allied Zomi Revolutionary Army (ZRA) retook control of Tonzang town in Chin State between May 19 and 20 2026, following a major offensive supported by continuous airstrikes and drone operations.
The town had been under the control of the Chin National Army (CNA) and allied Chin resistance forces since May 2024.
The decisive fighting erupted on 18 May near Tungtuang village as the joint SSPC-ZRA column advanced. Resistance groups, including units from the Chinland Defense Force (CDF), stated that they withdrew on 19 May, describing the move as temporary and citing overwhelming troop strength and sustained aerial bombardment as the reason for their pullout.
The operation began on 15 May as a two-pronged offensive from Tedim and Cikha towns, involving an estimated 600 to 800 SSPC troops and nearly 200 ZRA-Eastern Command (ZRA-EC) fighters.
The push was reportedly part of SSPC leader Min Aung Hlaing’s “100-day plan” to regain control of areas held by resistance groups. Tonzang is considered strategically vital because it borders India’s Manipur State and serves as a major supply route for resistance groups.
The recapture follows the SSPC’s recent offensive successes in Chin State, including the retaking of Falam town on 25 April.
In the wake of the takeover, local political bodies began restoration efforts. The Zomi National Party (ZNP) is consulting with local residents regarding the planned reopening of government offices, schools, and hospitals in Tonzang, all of which have been suspended for nearly two years due to the conflict.
The ZRA Executive Committee issued a statement urging residents to maintain peace, avoid cooperation with armed groups, and refrain from divisive rhetoric among ethnic groups.
The clashes caused casualties among both resistance fighters and civilians, though exact figures remain unknown. Resistance sources also alleged that SSPC-allied forces detained five displaced civilians in Lomzang village since 15 May.
The aggressive military tactics are part of a broader pattern.; SSPC forces recently burned at least 28 civilian homes in Chuncung village, Hakha township and carried out airstrikes on Tapyin and Mindat towns.
With the retaking of Tonzang town, the SSPC now controls four of the nine Chin State townships: Hakha, Tedim, Falam, and Tonzang. Resistance forces maintain control of Mindat, Matupi, Kanpetlet, and Paletwa townships. Thantlang township remains contested. – Reporting by Daniel
