Sources from resistance groups report that the junta has recently deployed over 1,000 troops to launch a large-scale offensive in Dawei District, Mon State.
Since the third week of August, the junta has conducted two weeks of intense operations along the Ye–Dawei road, particularly between Kalain Aung and Malwe Taung, with approximately 300 soldiers engaged.
Similarly, junta forces of around 400 troops have been deployed along the Kanpauk–Kalain Aung route, about 400 along the Nabule–Dawei jetty area, around 300 on the Dawei–Thee Khee road, and about 200 along the Dawei–Thayet Chaung road.
According to local sources, these deployments aim to secure junta supplies to the Nat Ein Taung border camp. Resistance forces are actively engaging the troops, preventing reinforcements from reaching the camp.
One source explains: “Nat Ein Taung camp is the only one remaining along the border. The camp is positioned on a natural gas pipeline route, most of which is controlled by resistance groups. Whenever the junta sends reinforcements along the border roads, the resistance fiercely resists, making it nearly impossible for supplies to reach the camp.”
Following these clashes, some junta units reportedly withdrew to the Union Highway (Route 8), although preparations for another offensive remain underway.
Sources indicate that the junta no longer controls any major border trade gates within Dawei District and is attempting to regain control of Thee Khee, a crossing previously held by resistance forces, and other trade points along the Ranong–Kawthoung route.
A resistance officer noted: “The junta cannot freely trade anymore, neither in Thee Khee nor along the routes to Mawtaung. Battles have blocked most roads, leaving only the Kawthoung–Ranong route accessible. The junta is now intensifying efforts to regain control of these border checkpoints.”
The junta is also reportedly intensifying operations in anticipation of the first phase of elections in Dawei Township, aiming to assert territorial control. Analysts suggest these attacks are designed to regain influence over the Kalain Aung and Malwe Taung road segment on Route 8 and protect the junta’s economic activities in the region.
