On 24 June, a force of approximately 400 junta soldiers launched a major military operation in the eastern part of Minhla Township in the Bago Yoma mountain range of Myanmar’s Bago Region, according to the Minhla Township People’s Defence Force (PDF).

The PDF reported that troops began setting fire to villages early in the day – Botahtaung village at around 1 am, Sachaung at 2 am, Sinaingchaungpauk at 11 am and Ganggawbin at 2 pm, all on the same day.

According to a Minhla Township PDF official, the soldiers looted homes before burning them down. As of the afternoon, parts of Ganggawbin were still being set ablaze.

“It seems they’re determined to destroy every village,” the official stated on 24 June.

Due to the continued military presence in the area, the current situation remains unclear, the official added.

Junta forces had earlier detained five villagers from U To Taung Su village under the U To Kanyin Pin administration on 21 June, and two young men from Thayawkon village were arrested on 22 June, according to an information officer from the Minhla Township PDF.

“So far, at least seven people have been taken, and there’s been no word on their release,” the information officer said.

The junta’s troops are currently spread across the eastern and southeastern parts of Minhla Township, displacing thousands of residents who fled for safety.

“There are reports suggesting the military plans to burn more villages between the Yangon-Pyay highway and the Yoma region. The displaced urgently need shelter and food,” said a resistance member.

The escalation followed a 16 June attack by resistance fighters on a junta checkpoint near Oktwin village, reportedly killing several soldiers, including officers. In retaliation, the military began widespread raids and village burnings starting 19 June.