Hakha–Thantlang Road Regained: Hakha–Thantlang transportation route recaptured

Joint terrorist insurgent groups identified as CNF and CDF launched surprise attacks with superior force against security personnel conducting security operations in Thantlang Township in Chin State, beginning in February 2023, and temporarily seized control of Thantlang Township.

In response, Tatmadaw columns carried out counter-terrorism operations against the insurgent groups and successfully regained control of Thantlang, on October 29, 2023. Although efforts were made to promptly carry out rehabilitation and reconstruction activities after regaining control, terrorist insurgents continued acts of sabotage and disrupted and blocked transportation and communication routes in the region.

As a result, the flow of goods within the region came to a halt, causing significant delays in reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts. Therefore, in order to reopen the Hakha–Thantlang transportation route, which is the main logistics corridor necessary for regional rehabilitation activities in the Thantlang area, Tatmadaw columns made the necessary preparations in Hakha and began difficult area-clearance and security operations along the route starting from June 4 despite various restrictions.

During these operations, hills and camps temporarily controlled by terrorist insurgents were recaptured step by step. By the evening of June 9, the entire Hakha–Thantlang road section that had been temporarily controlled by the insurgents was fully regained.

Consequently, cargo vehicles and travelers are now able to pass through normally again, and the transportation of goods within the region can resume without difficulty. Following the reopening of the Hakha–Thantlang transportation route, Tatmadaw columns are assisting internally displaced local residents who had temporarily fled due to fighting to return to their homes. Mine-clearing operations are also being carried out to ensure the safety of local residents from landmine dangers.

In addition, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts in the region, which had deteriorated because of terrorist activities, will be jointly undertaken by the government together with local residents. Necessary aid and support materials for regional development and for improving education, healthcare, and socio-economic conditions will also now be able to be delivered to the area.