The Magway People’s Defence Force (PDF) announced on Tuesday that its fighters successfully shot down a Myanmar military Mi-17 helicopter in Myaing Township, located within Pakokku District, Magway Region.
A representative from the Magway PDF confirmed the incident directly to Mizzima on 23 June, noting that comprehensive details regarding casualties and operational records would be made public as soon as ground forces clarify the situation.
The resistance group echoed this on its social media platforms, adding that further information about the downing would be provided shortly.
Footage circulating widely on social media captures resistance forces firing at the aircraft, with a visible flame erupting due to a free-flight rocket impact.
However, the exact extent of the damage and any potential casualties remain unconfirmed at the time of reporting.
According to the Magway PDF, the operation was executed in collaboration with allied resistance forces.
In the wake of the incident, the group warned local residents and personnel to remain highly cautious of potential retaliatory aerial attacks.
This development follows an ongoing military junta offensive in the southern region of Myaing Township, which began on 15 June. An official from the “We Love Myaing” organization reported that a military column has deployed troops along the Twinma-Tharyatkan-Kaingtawma road section, as well as around Kaingtawma, Kannet, and Kankale villages.
