Myanmar’s regime raids on six resistance camps in a week have left three rebel fighters dead and many weapons have been lost.
Between June 29 and July 5, junta troops raided and destroyed people’s defense people’s force (PDF) camps in Mandalay, Sagaing, Magwe, Tanintharyi and Ayeyarwady regions.
The Yaw Defence Force (YDF) Battalion 15 camp in Magwe Region was torched by junta troops withdrawing from Chin State on June 29.
No YDF casualties were reported but weapons and ammunition and 11 motorcycles were lost, worth around US$10,820, according to the YDF.
A member of Natogyi PDF in Mandalay was seized by junta troops during a camp raid on July 3. There was firing and the outgunned PDF retreated, leaving weapons and ammunition.
Bullets, grenades, an M9 gun, mobile phones and three motorcycles were lost, worth around US$32,000, according to Natogyi PDF.
“The loss of weapons is costly because it is very difficult to buy arms. We are trying to replace them,” said a Natogyi PDF representative.
Three members of Galon PDF, who were fighting with Kantbalu PDF in Sagaing, were killed during a junta raid on July 4. Kantbalu PDF’s members left the camp when the soldiers advanced, a representative told The Irrawaddy.
“Our comrades from Galon PDF from Depayin came to help us but we didn’t repel the soldiers. We left after planting mines around the camp,” they said.
Some resistance forces have tried to rebuild new camps and others are using guerilla tactics. The groups said they need more weapons and camp equipment, like tarpaulins.
“With little public support, it is difficult. We ask the public to support the revolution until the end,” said Ko Kyaw Gyi of the YDF.
Regime troops continue to suffer heavy casualties around the country.
