Tatmadaw columns have recaptured strategically important positions and a regional battalion headquarters along the Mandalay–Thabeikkyin–Mogok communication route, according to a statement released by the National Defence and Security Council Information Team on January 14.
In order to reopen the Thabeikkyin–Mogok route as quickly as possible, security forces conducted operations to retake a regional battalion headquarters and surrounding areas that had been temporarily controlled by terrorist insurgents. By systematically consolidating and analyzing information provided by local residents and members of the PDF who had returned to legal fold, Tatmadaw columns advanced with momentum in a balanced manner through divided units while carrying out area security operations.
As a result, the columns recaptured Nyaungpintha Village on January 11, Poezanwe Village on January 12, Kyauk Hlebee Village on January 13, the regional battalion headquarters along the route and the surrounding area of Seinkone Village on January 14 finally fully retaking control of the area, the statement said.
During the operations to retake the area, Tatmadaw troops engaged the terrorist insurgents in 37 large and small clashes, fighting resolutely without regard for personal safety. According to the statement, 15 enemy bodies, 34 assorted weapons, as well as ammunition and related equipment were seized. Some Tatmadaw officers and soldiers sacrificed or were wounded in the fighting.
The statement added that Tatmadaw columns will continue necessary area security operations and further clear and eliminate terrorist insurgents hiding along the road section between Seinkone Village and Mogok Town. Efforts will also be intensified to reopen as soon as possible the routes connecting Mogok, Thabeikkyin, and Mandalay.
