(Naypyidaw, 18th) – After 16 days of military operations, the Myanmar Armed Forces (Tatmadaw) regained full control over the Hsipaw region in northern Shan State on October 16, ending the occupation by the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA).
According to official reports, after recapturing Kyaukme on October 1, the armed forces continued advancing about 28 kilometers towards Hsipaw and quickly completed operational deployment, launching counter-terrorism actions starting October 2.
During the operation, the armed forces recovered multiple villages and towns, including Saikan, Nanpyainglai, Zaodigong, Nanhu Upper and Lower Villages, Banha, Kyaukmeji, Kuo Ding, Hill 947, Banhuote, Nakan, Kamon, Buka, Luokan, Qiaoqia, Nuangang, and other areas.
During the advance, the troops crossed the Nam Pan Si (about 110 feet wide, 12 feet deep, with a flow rate of 5 miles per hour) to launch a surprise attack on the remaining TNLA forces from an unexpected direction, and from October 12 to 16 successively recaptured Dingkang, Angxin, Mulai, Yepu, Longkun, Pengpan, Manluo, Qinti, Baoqiao, Guangka, Nakai, and other villages, as well as the Hsipaw toll station.
When the troops arrived near Qinti village, they found the TNLA attempting to destroy the Qinti Bridge (about 200 feet long and 28 feet wide) over the Nam Pan Si, but only managed to cause partial damage during their retreat; army engineers cleared the mines and repaired the bridge on the same day.
Near the Hsipaw toll station, the TNLA set fire to the prison administration office, administrative offices, and several public buildings before withdrawing. The army quickly extinguished the fire, restored security, and regained full control over Hsipaw on the 16th.
During the 16-day operation, there were 28 engagements (including 7 major battles and 21 contacts), with the army eliminating 13 TNLA members, capturing 7 weapons and some ammunition.
Reports state that local people greeted the military with flowers and tree branches as thanks. The army has since begun rebuilding efforts in the Hsipaw region, restoring trade and transportation. With Hsipaw returning to government control, the Pyin Oo Lwin–Nankyo–Kyaukme–Hsipaw road has reopened, and local economic and development projects are gradually resuming.