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KAREN STATE – Two junta troops from Infantry Battalion-556 under Division-44, based in Waw Le, Kawkareik Township, Duplaya District, Kawthoolei Region (a KNU-controlled area), have defected to the KNLA, bringing their weapons with them.
Win Naung Htun, the battalion commander, and Thet Soe, the vice-battalion commander, led this group, along with their comrades Ko Ko Naing and Ai Hlyan, both in their twenties, in joining KNLA Company-1, Battalion-103, Brigade-6 on September 6.
One of the junta troops carried an MA-1 rifle, four rounds of ammunition, 239 5.56mm bullets, and one piece of equipment. The other soldier was unable to bring his weapon or ammunition, as his battalion had confiscated his weapon and he had attempted to escape alone.
KNLA rewarded them with 50,000 Thai Baht for leaving the junta council and joining KNLA with their weapons. These troops stated that they deserted the junta council due to oppression by their officers and are now collaborating with revolutionary comrades to overthrow the junta dictatorship.
KNU also announced its warm welcome for junta troops willing to defect with their weapons and pledged continued support from both the organization and the public.