Security Forces Retake Banmauk After Four Months of Fighting, Begin Recovery Efforts

Security forces said they fully retook Banmauk town in Sagaing Region on February 8 after months of operations against joint KIA and PDF groups that had temporarily seized the area.

The groups reportedly attacked the town on September 20, 2025, and security forces began clearance operations four days later. By late October, they had regained control of several surrounding villages and key strategic points west and northwest of the town.

According to the statement, the fighting lasted more than four months as opposing forces had fortified positions inside religious buildings, schools, hospitals, hotels, homes, and high-rise structures using sandbag bunkers, and allegedly used civilians as human shields. Security forces said they advanced cautiously under Rules of Engagement to limit damage to buildings.

During the operation, 69 clashes were reported. Some security personnel were killed or injured, and weapons, ammunition, explosives, and other materials were seized.

The statement also alleged that homes were burned, property was looted, and residents were forced to flee to temporary shelters. It further claimed environmental damage due to the extraction of natural resources while the area was under opposing control.

Authorities said they are now working to clear debris and mines, repair schools and hospitals, and help displaced residents return as part of recovery efforts in the town.