Two Soldiers Arrested After Stealing Police Pistol in Monywa Township

Two soldiers from Myanmar’s military council were apprehended after allegedly stealing a police officer’s pistol in Monywa Township, Sagaing Region. The arrest, confirmed by the Monywa Township People’s Defense Force (PDF), took place on December 26 at the border between Monywa and Chaung-U Townships.

Members of the Chaung-U PCA Combat Unit (CHU PDF Unit 1), Special Force 11 LPDF, and Deik Deik Kye LPDF discovered the soldiers acting suspiciously. After interrogation, they confirmed the individuals were defectors attempting to escape military control and handed them over to the Monywa Township PDF.

The suspects, believed to be fleeing from the Namkha-controlled area, carried a stolen MA-5 pistol, nine 9 mm rounds, a .380 bullet, a pistol bag, and two mobile phones. The items were confiscated, and the soldiers were turned over to local authorities in good health.

An official from the Chaung-U PDF stated:
“Our comrades are constantly vigilant. These soldiers, who were trying to defect to the light, were arrested during their escape and handed over to the Monywa PDF.”

Reports indicate the two soldiers were initially sent to Monywa on December 20 to reinforce the Innaw region from the 33rd Division in Sagaing. Their capture highlights the growing defection of military personnel to opposition forces, signaling cracks within Myanmar’s military ranks.

This development showcases the ongoing tension in the Sagaing Region and the crucial role of People’s Defense Forces in maintaining security and addressing military council threats.