Retreating KNPP, KNDF, and PDF forces sabotage key transportation link in Kayah State
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Hsu(NP News)-Feb 22
The Thanlwin Bridge (Hpasawng), located near Hpasawng Town in Mese Township, Kayah State, was destroyed by landmines detonated by KNPP, KNDF, and PDF groups, according to the State Security and Peace Commission’s Information Team.
Shortly after Tatmadaw columns secured Hpasawng on February 15, the Thanlwin Bridge was destroyed by KNPP, KNDF, and PDF groups while the Tatmadaw forces were conducting clearance operations.
The demolition was reportedly carried out to obstruct military advances toward Mese Township during area clearance efforts.
The Thanlwin Bridge (Hpasawng), which spans more than 1,200 feet and serves as a vital link between Hpasawng and Mese, sustained damage on the Hpasawng side following landmine explosions.
Starting in December 2021, KNPP, KNDF, and PDF groups targeted government administrative structures and launched an offensive on Loikaw. Following sustained counter-operations, Tatmadaw forces retook the Kayah State capital in late November 2023.
Upon the loss of Loikaw, KNPP, KNDF, and PDF forces reportedly repositioned in Demoso Township, carrying out activities such as the interdiction of transportation routes.
Tatmadaw columns initiated 'Operation Yan Naing Min' to restore administrative control over terrorist-held areas. By August 19, 2025, the operation successfully regained Demoso and its environs from the KNPP, KNDF, and PDF.
Following their withdrawal from Demoso, KNPP, KNDF, and PDF groups briefly occupied Hpasawng. They conducted four major offensives against battalion headquarters on June 26, June 30, July 5, and July 7, 2025. Having failed to secured these objectives, the groups retreated and continued to target Hpasawng with heavy weapons fire from distant positions.
Following preparations to retake Hpasawng from KNPP, KNDF, and PDF groups, Tatmadaw columns launched clearance operations along the Bawlakhe–Htoo Chaung–Hpasawng route on September 30, 2025. By November 27, they secured the damaged Htoo Chaung Bridge. Advancing further, forces captured the insurgent strongholds of Nam Kit and Pa Pu villages on February 12, 2026, before fully securing Hpasawng town on February 15.
A total of 31 engagements were recorded during the recapture of Hpasawng. Reports indicate the seizure of 17 assorted firearms, bodies, and explosive-related items from the KNPP, KNDF, and PDF groups. Security forces suffered both fatalities and injuries during the course of these operations.