The ethnic Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and allied People’s Defense Force (PDF) groups, operating under the civilian National Unity Government (NUG), have captured a major regional military headquarters near the China border in a significant setback for Myanmar’s ruling junta. The capture of Lashio in Shan State and Mogok in the Mandalay Region, a major gem-mining center, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict.
On Wednesday, the TNLA reported complete control of the remaining military junta camps in Mogok after approximately 30 days of continuous attacks. This follows the successful capture of Lashio, which houses the regional military headquarters, after 23 days of intense fighting. The TNLA’s spokesperson, Lway Yay Oo, announced the occupation, emphasizing the strategic advantage gained by isolating Mongmit, just 45 kilometers away.
#Myanmar 🇲🇲: in one of their most significant victories ad of yet, #TNLA forces have claimed the full capture of the vitally strategic town of Mogok.
Mogok is situated in the mountains overlooking #Mandalay, in a region rich in precious minerals. pic.twitter.com/Uk7u4LIH1e
— Thomas van Linge (@ThomasVLinge) July 24, 2024
The successful operations in Lashio and Mogok are part of a broader offensive known as Operation 1027, initiated last October by the Three Brotherhood Alliance, which includes the TNLA, Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), and the Arakan Army (AA). This coalition of ethnic minority insurgents resumed intensified attacks on June 25, breaking a five-month ceasefire brokered by China.
The ruling military council has denied the loss of its headquarters in Lashio, with local residents reporting ongoing clashes. Communications with Mogok have been severed, but social media footage shows local support for the insurgents. The junta has yet to issue an official statement regarding the capture of Mogok, and attempts to contact regional spokespersons have been unsuccessful.
The welcoming after the Mogok city, Mandalay region has fallen.
“May you all be healthy”
“These are our sons…our sons” could be heard in the video.#TNLA #WhatsHappeninglnMyanmar #2024Jul24Coup pic.twitter.com/GMAvt1gJtr— အေးရိပ်ငယ် (@yellowhouse1511) July 24, 2024
The fall of these strategic towns represents a significant defeat for the junta and raises questions about its ability to maintain control over contested territories. The TNLA and allied forces continue to press their advantage, capturing additional territories and intensifying their offensive in the Mandalay and Shan regions. The junta’s use of airstrikes and its inability to reclaim lost ground underscores the growing strength and coordination of the rebel forces.
Expanded Coverage:
