The Chin National Army (CNA) has successfully retaken Point-3 Hill, a strategically important location between Hakha and Thantlang in Chin State, from the junta. According to a CNA official, the operation began on 22 November and culminated in the recapture of the hill on 25 November after intense fighting.

Point-3 Hill, located closer to Thantlang, has been a critical military position where junta columns advancing from Hakha were previously intercepted. The CNA reported discovering several bodies of junta troops at the site and seized six firearms and a significant stockpile of ammunition.

“This hill is now under our control. The Military Council had retaken it earlier because of its strategic importance, but we launched an operation to recapture it,” a CNA officer said.

Point-3 Hill was initially captured by CNA and allied forces in July but was lost to a junta offensive in October. Its latest recapture highlights the position’s pivotal role in the ongoing conflict.

Kyaw Than Aung, Deputy Battalion Commander of the Chin Defence Force-Lautu Brigade 1, Battalion 1, was killed during the operation marking a significant loss for the allied forces despite the victory.

Fighting around Thantlang city began in July when Chin forces launching coordinated attacks that initially left only two junta camps to be seized. However, the junta relied on airstrikes and heavy artillery to bolster its defences, resulting in a protracted battle.

Since 9 November, the Chin Brotherhood Alliance (CBA) and allied forces have intensified their offensives against junta camps in Falam and Mindat. Resistance forces report that ground reinforcements have been impeded, but the junta has increasingly resorted to airstrikes to maintain its positions.

Revolutionary forces in Chin State have solidified control over three of nine townships, Paletwa, Matupi, and Tonzang while the junta remains confined to town centres in the other six.