Myanmar Battalion Commander Reported Killed in Chin Clashes

Mizzima

Intense fighting in Chin State has reportedly claimed the life of a senior Myanmar military officer, as clashes continue to escalate across resistance‑held areas.

The Chin National Army (CNA) said Lieutenant Colonel Thant Zaw Oo, a battalion commander under the junta’s 77th Light Infantry Division, was killed on 23 April during heavy battles near Tsum Hrim village in Falam Township. CNA spokesperson Salai Htet Ni told Mizzima that the officer fell in combat as junta forces attempted to advance on Falam, though details of casualties remain unclear.

The death has not been independently verified, but front‑line commanders confirmed the report, describing fierce engagements as the military pushes towards strategic sites including Surbung Airport, five miles from Falam. Since late October, around 1,000 junta troops have been deployed in the area, backed by airstrikes.

The clashes come as the regime declared a 90‑day state of emergency across 60 townships nationwide, including most of Chin State. Resistance leaders warn the measure will intensify aerial bombardments and repression of civilians.

Meanwhile, in Kachin State, regime troops abducted 21 people from a clinic in Hpakant Township on 21 April, including doctors, nurses and patients. Local reports say soldiers and allied militia have looted valuables after seizing Lone Khin village from the Kachin Independence Army.

Despite junta leader Min Aung Hlaing’s recent call for peace talks, resistance groups dismiss the overture as hollow, citing ongoing arrests, airstrikes and civilian casualties.

-2026-04-27