The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) executed an impactful ambush on a junta reinforcement convoy traveling from Tangyan Town to Nampawng Town in Lashio Township, Shan State. The ambush resulted in staggering casualties among the junta troops.

The convoy, consisting of approximately 400 soldiers and transported in eight large military trucks, departed Tangyan at around 3:00 AM on July 30. The MNDAA, in coordination with allied forces, ambushed the convoy between Manpang and Honar villages, situated near Lashio.

A military source from Lashio reported to SHAN, “The convoy was on its way to reinforce Nampawng when it was ambushed by the MNDAA and the People’s Defense Force (PDF). Initial reports indicate that over 50 soldiers were killed and more than 80 were injured in the attack.”

The ambush instigated a protracted gunfight that continued throughout the day, he added.

Earlier, on July 29, a convoy carrying approximately 1,000 junta troops arrived in Tangyan from Mongkung, locals reported. These troops, also transported in large trucks, were part of the junta’s increased reinforcement activities in the currently conflict-ridden region.

The junta’s ramping up of reinforcement efforts follows the recent deployment of United Wa State Army (UWSA) troops in Lashio. On the evening of July 27, the UWSA stationed forces to protect its External Relations Office and other strategic interests in the town.

Furthermore, on July 10, over 2,000 UWSA troops crossed the west bank of the Thanlwin (Salween) River and were deployed in Tangyan. Some of these troops have continued their advance towards Lashio, where the conflict has been boiling.