By Ra Wai / MPA
In the town-seizing battle of Pinlebu in the Sagaing Region, over 400 firearms, including heavy and light weapons and numerous ammunition were seized, according to the report of the Military Region 1.
On August 15, the offensive to take Pinlebu began and successfully concluded on October 8. The Military Region 1 issued a statement, honoring fallen and injured comrades who sacrificed during this, the fifth battle to capture the town.
“The Pinlebu town-seizing battle demonstrated the unity and strength of the PDF forces. This was not just a victory for the local PDF battalions but for all forces within Sagaing. Under the command of the MOD (NUG Ministry of Defense), we engaged in major battles and gained invaluable combat experience,” said a PDF member from Yinmabin District.
During the town-seizing battle, 70 junta soldiers were killed, 275 went missing, and 225 were injured, with 60 of them in critical condition. Additionally, 48 soldiers surrendered, and 102 were captured and found to be using drugs. Drugs, including heroin, were also found at the junta’s main base in the police station.
The junta launched over 670 airstrikes in an attempt to defend against the PDF’s offensive, dropping more than 5,000 bombs.
“When the PDF begins an attack, the junta’s first reaction seems to be to always call for air support. Once the ground situation deteriorates, they often retreat,” the source added.
The operation was coordinated under the command of the Special Operations Commander of Katha District and involved PDF forces from Kawlin, Shwebo, Tamu, Mawlaik, Kale, Yinmabin, and Monywa Districts, along with several People’s Defense Teams (Pa Ka Pha) across Sagaing Region, according to the report from Military Region 1.
