1 June 2026 – Magway Region’s Yaw area has witnessed intense fighting between the State Security and Peace Commission (SSPC) troops and local allied resistance groups, with more than 100 clashes reported since mid-May, according to a statement released by the Yaw Army (YA) on 31 May.
The Yaw Army stated that fighting began on 13 May and remains ongoing. The group claimed that more than 100 junta personnel were injured and over 80 were killed during the clashes.
According to the statement, a military column of approximately 400 troops departed from Defense Industries Factory No. 24 (KaPaSa-24) in Pauk township on 11 May, followed by another force of around 900 troops and military vehicles on 22 May.
The combined force advanced into the Nat Htate area of Pontaung in the Yaw Region, where clashes with allied resistance forces began on 13 May.
The statement said resistance forces also suffered casualties, including wounded fighters and fatalities. It further claimed that allied forces captured several prisoners of war and seized weapons and ammunition during the fighting.
The Yaw Army accused SSPC troops of committing abuses against civilians throughout the operation, including using civilians as human shields, arbitrary detention, torture, killings, looting of civilian property, arson attacks on homes, and repeated airstrikes targeting displacement sites. The group described these actions as serious war crimes and strongly condemned the military’s conduct.
The Yaw Army reaffirmed its commitment to continuing armed resistance until the military dictatorship is dismantled and freedom is achieved for both the Yaw Region and the wider country.
It also warned that fighting could intensify and urged civilians to prepare in advance, remain vigilant, and coordinate with relevant local authorities to ensure their safety. – Reporting by Ben
