A combined force of Mon, Karen, and Dawei resistance fighters launched multiple ambushes against military junta troops attempting to reinforce their positions at the Nat Aei Taung border outpost, located east of Yebyu Township, Tanintharyi Region, Kaleinaung town along the Thai-Myanmar border.
According to resistance sources, four separate clashes took place between July 11 and 15 as junta columns advanced along the No. 8 Highway and toward the border outpost. At least four junta soldiers, including Captain Aung Bo Hein, were reportedly killed in the fighting.
“Clashes began on July 11 when junta troops moved along the gas pipeline route and toward the Nat Aei Taung border camp. Though they have since retreated, we believe they are still planning to reinforce the camp,” said Pado Saw An Na, Secretary of the KNU’s Myeik-Dawei District, in a statement to IMNA.
During the four-day series of engagements, four junta soldiers were captured alive. Resistance forces also seized nine small arms, one RPG, one 60mm mortar, and a large quantity of ammunition. Injured junta soldiers reportedly received medical treatment from the Karen National Union (KNU).
The junta units involved in the attempted advance were identified as Infantry Battalions (IB) 282 and 273, and Light Infantry Battalions (LIB) 408, 409, and 410 — all under the Kaleinaung-based Coastal Command Headquarters.
A frontline commander from Yebyu’s People’s Defense Force (PDF) Battalion 4, Ko Aung Pan, told IMNA, “we’re fighting both to take control of the Nat Aei Taung border post and to block reinforcements. We’re constantly targeting their supply routes. Though they are still trying to reach the camp, it’s become increasingly difficult for them. They don’t have full control of the strategic hill. We expect new developments soon.”
The attacks were carried out by a joint coalition including Dona Columns 2 and 3, KNLA Brigade 4, combined units from KNLA Brigade 6 Battalion 27, the NMSP’s Ramanya Mon Army (RMA), the Mon State Revolutionary Force (MSRF), the Karen Tiger Liberation Army (KTLA), and the Nonentity Coach Training Unit.
Earlier this year, joint resistance forces led by the KNLA successfully captured several other junta outposts in Tanintharyi Region, including those at Hteekhee, Hteehta, Bawdi, Ngayani, and Thuka. Operations to seize the remaining military camps in the region are still ongoing.
