The junta regime’s forces have successfully recaptured Naung Hkio town from the TNLA (Ta’ang National Liberation Army), as indicated by images disseminated through a Telegram channel associated with the regime’s hardline supporters. The loss of Naung Hkio town constitutes a significant setback for the TNLA, which did not deny the media claims over its loss.

The situation serves as an important lesson for the TNLA, which has recently exacerbated tensions with the KIA (Kachin Independence Army). Following their capture of Naung Hkio and Mogok in the northern Mandalay region, the TNLA sought to distance itself from this crucial ally, a decision that now appears to have been ill-advised.

In the absence of support from its allies, the TNLA faces significant difficulties in mounting an effective effort to regain control of Naung Hkio town from the regime’s forces. The challenges ahead are substantial, raising questions about their capacity to recover lost territory.