Two forcibly conscripted Myanmar soldiers defect with weapons in Bago RegionMizzima

Two soldiers who were forcibly conscripted into Myanmar’s Military Council have defected with their weapons and ammunition, according to a 22 May announcement from Tharyarwaddy District’s No. 1 Battalion (3801).

The two men, identified as Nai Wai Lin and Yazar Min, fled from a military column based in Pyinpon Village—a Pyu Saw Htee stronghold—in Nattalin Township, Bago Region, on 19 May. They rejoined what the statement referred to as the “legal fold” through Battalion 3801.

“They fled after being ordered to burn civilian homes and to arrest and torture residents,” the battalion stated, explaining that the soldiers refused to participate in operations targeting civilians.

Originally from Ye Kyi and Kyonpyaw townships in Ayeyarwady Region, the two had previously served in security and welfare roles before being deployed to front-line duties in Nattalin Township.