August 5, 2024

The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) has announced that over 4,000 junta troops and their families have surrendered following the fall of the Eastern Command Headquarters in Lashio. This development was confirmed by the military council’s spokesperson, Zaw Min Tun.

For the first time, the military council has publicly acknowledged the fall of the Eastern Command Headquarters (Yay Pyay) in Lashio, a significant admission considering the usual practice of downplaying or concealing such defeats.

Zaw Min Tun reported that communication with senior officers at the Eastern Command was lost as of 6:30 PM on August 3rd. It has been confirmed that some high-ranking officers have been captured by the MNDAA.

The MNDAA’s statement detailed that the takeover of the main command and administrative offices at the Eastern Command began in the afternoon of August 3rd. Since then, junta troops have gradually surrendered, with the current count exceeding 4,000 soldiers and their families.

Revolutionary forces are now conducting area clearance operations. While some junta soldiers surrendered with their weapons, others came forward waving white flags. The situation in Lashio has become calmer, with fewer firefights reported compared to the previous days.

The MNDAA has secured the Lashio township and is conducting patrols to ensure safety. Residents are now allowed to return to the city, the MNDAA stated.