Surrendered soldiers understandably gave priority to China and army families: Military spokesperson

 Major general Zaw Min Tun, spokesperson for the military regime, stated that the surrender of thousands of junta forces in Laukkai township was because of the priority given to China-Myanmar friendship and safety of their families.

Regarding the surrender of the entire Laukkai regional operation command (ROC), Zaw Min Tun reacted and his statement was reported by Popular News, which prioritises junta-related news.

"The military has thoroughly assessed the situation in Laukkai considering all aspects. The safety of family members was their top priority. Beside the military personnel, their families also stayed in the Laukkai area,” he added.

Recently some Chinese citizens were injured due to the explosion of an artillery shell and the junta forces were facing pressure from Beijing.

"On that side, the armed organizations have been firing and they are issuing statements accusing the military personnel for all the destruction.  Thus they undermined the friendship between the two neighbouring countries. Taking all these factors into account, I would like to say that those local commanders had done their best," he asserted.

Zaw Min Tun also stated that the military council had evaluated the Laukkai incident from different perspectives and is now applying various methods to resolve the armed conflicts.

"Myanmar has enjoyed independence for 76 years and it is apparent that the lack of progress is largely attributable to internal armed conflicts. Hence, we are utilizing all available means to  resolve the conflict,” he stated

According to a statement issued by  Three Brotherhood Alliance, brigadier general Moe Kyaw Thu with the entire battalion of the last remaining regional operation command in Laukkai surrendered to MNDAA on 4 January.

Among those who surrendered included 1,895 soldiers and 228 officers. Furthermore, 2,666 junta soldiers  surrendered from the point-2022 hill-based camp. Additionally 1,601 family members also  surrendered.