The military junta has launched an offensive to reclaim Khaug Lone Gyi base in Tanintharyi Township, Tanintharyi Region, according to the People’s Defense Forces (PDF).
On June 14, the PDF captured Aung Thawara base in Tanintharyi Township, prompting junta forces to flee Khaug Lone Gyi. Subsequently, on June 19, around 200 troops from the 17th Infantry Battalion based in Bot Khyam village began advancing towards Khaug Lone Gyi village.
Clashes erupted between the advancing junta troops and the PDF, with junta forces retreating to the 401st Artillery Battalion base in Ale Chaung village.
“From Khaug Lone Gyi to Infantry Battalion 17, it’s a straight path with no intervening villages. The junta convoy moved in military vehicles, and we engaged them mid-route, resulting in a skirmish. On June 22, they moved into the 104th Artillery Battalion base and remain there. The convoy included troops from both Infantry Battalion 17 and other units,” said a spokesperson from the PDF’s 1st Battalion in Myeik District.
Khaug Lone Gyi base was previously manned by about 50 troops from the 285th Infantry Battalion based in Pulaw town.
Despite being a riverside base, flooding has prevented the junta from utilizing river transport for their offensive.
Following the junta’s retreat, the PDF conducted a clearance operation in the area.
The junta is also reportedly bolstering their forces in Pulaw with over 180 troops while continuing to advance towards Khaug Lone Gyi village.
Additionally, the junta has been launching offensives into villages in Thayetchaung, Dawei, and Tanintharyi townships within the Tanintharyi Region.
