Myanmar Military's Struggle for Control: Port Town Battles and Losses
Myanmar's military is engaged in a fierce battle with insurgents over a port town on the Bay of Bengal, according to an opposition alliance. The military, which seized power in a coup last year, is facing a coordinated offensive launched by three ethnic minority insurgent groups and pro-democracy fighters. The alliance reported that the military attacked the town with helicopters and artillery fire, and later shot and killed civilians. The offensive, known as "Operation 1027," is the largest the junta has faced in years, with rebel groups capturing several towns and military posts across the country. Fighting has also erupted in Shan State on the border with China, where the insurgents aim to take control and eradicate illegal online scam centers.