Myanmar rebels capture military command center, senior officers in northern offensive: Reports

By Yasin Gungor

ISTANBUL (AA) - Rebel forces in Myanmar have captured a key military command center and several high-ranking officers in the northern Shan State, marking a significant setback for the ruling junta, local media reported on Monday.

The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) and its allies said they seized control of the Northeast Command Headquarters in Lashio Township on Saturday after weeks of intense fighting. The rebels released photographs purportedly showing the captured facility.

Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, spokesman for the State Administration Council, the military junta currently governing the country, confirmed on Sunday night that communication with senior military officers had been lost and some were believed to be in rebel custody, according to Myanmar-based Eleven media outlet.

"The regiments under the supervision of the Northeast Command Headquarter defended valiantly against the enemy's attacks," Zaw Min Tun said. "We were in contact with these officers until 6.30 p.m. on Aug. 3, but communication has been interrupted since then,” he added.

The MNDAA is part of the Brotherhood Alliance, which includes the Ta'ang National Liberation Army and the Arakan Army. The alliance had previously entered a China-mediated cease-fire with the junta, known as the Haigeng agreement, which broke down following clashes in the northern Shan State.

This latest offensive, which began in October last year, has led to widespread displacement in the region and represents a significant challenge to the military government's control in northern Myanmar.