Dozens of members of the Myanmar security forces have surrendered or been captured by rebel group Arakan Army (AA), as a coordinated offensive by insurgent groups battling the junta intensifies in various parts of the country. The AA reported that 28 policemen surrendered and 10 soldiers were arrested in Rakhine State. The rebels have captured towns and military posts, including on the China border, posing a significant challenge to the junta since the 2021 coup. The junta spokesperson accused the rebel groups of "destroying the whole country" and did not comment on reports of junta forces surrendering.
Thousands of people have been displaced and some have crossed into China after armed groups fighting for autonomy launched coordinated attacks on Myanmar's junta seeking control of towns. China's public security minister held talks with the junta on establishing peace along their shared border. The armed groups, including the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), the Arakan Army (AA), and the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), have seized military posts and key roads. The United Nations estimates that over 6,200 people have been displaced, with 600 fleeing across the Chinese border. China, a top ally and arms supplier of the junta, has refused to label the power grab a coup and has provided support to the groups controlling the border areas.
