Resistance forces say junta troops operating near the Dawei Special Economic Zone in Yebyu Township, Tanintharyi Region, remained stationed in nearby villages as of July 16.
After reinforcing a security outpost inside the Dawei Special Economic Zone with additional troops, the military advanced into nearby villages in three columns on July 9.
A representative of the Dawei People’s Liberation Force (TPLF) said the columns, comprising more than 600 troops, advanced into nearly 10 villages surrounding the economic zone, including Khamone Chaung, Wet Chaung, Aekani, Wazun Taw, Ya Nye, and Kone Thar Yar Ain.
“There are around 600 troops. That is roughly the size of a division-level force. It appears they are trying to clear out resistance forces operating near the economic zone in the Nabule area. We understand that they plan to begin implementing the Dawei deep-sea port project in January 2027,” the TPLF representative said.
Although troops entered the villages and established positions there, no clashes have been reported because allied resistance forces withdrew from the area, according to the representative.
The representative added that troops stationed in the villages have reportedly broken into homes, looted property, and set houses on fire.
“They are still there. They have burned down houses in Wazun Taw and Aekani villages. We still cannot confirm exactly how many houses have been affected. Since they have a much larger force, resistance groups are monitoring the situation and responding as conditions allow,” he said.
On June 24, General Kyaw Swar Lin, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services under the military commission, said strategic projects such as the Dawei deep-sea port would be secured and that resistance forces operating along Union Highway No. 8—the Ye–Dawei–Myeik–Bokpyin–Kawthaung route—would be effectively cleared.
Since that statement, clashes have occurred between military forces and allied resistance groups along sections of Union Highway No. 8. The military has also reportedly intensified operations to drive out resistance groups operating around the Dawei Special Economic Zone.
Reports indicate that more than 30 local men from villages where troops remain stationed have been arrested and detained. IMNA is continuing to verify these reports.
On June 25, more than 2,000 residents were reportedly displaced after military columns entered Mu Du Village in the Dawei Special Economic Zone.
