Joint defense forces took control of Takaung, a prominent ancient city in Thabeikkyin Township in the Mandalay Region, on 12 August.
An official of the joint resistance forces said: “We have taken full control of the town. The battle began on 11 August, and by 12 August we were in full control.”
The resistance official explained that they were able to take Takaung after two days of fighting despite the military junta’s airstrikes.
“On 11 August, we captured the places where the junta troops were stationed, such as Lay Myet Hnar Pagoda and the General Administration Office. We also attacked police stations and seized them that day. At the same time, we seized the station hospital where the junta troops had taken up positions. They suffered casualties and we captured many of them alive,” said the resistance official.
During the Battle of Takaung, the military carried out airstrikes and dropped 500-pound bombs that caused considerable damage.
Due to the military situation, almost all the residents of Takaung evacuated the town and moved to safer places.
According to reports, the battalions of the Military Region (1) of the National Unity Government (NUG), Thabeikkyin Township People’s Defense Force and Takaung Station People’s Defense Forces took part in the fighting.
The Thabeikkyin Township PDF has released photos and video footage confirming the capture and control of Takaung. About 10 members of the joint defense forces were reportedly injured during the battle.
The resistance forces also took prisoners of war and seized weapons during the Battle of Takaung, with exact details to be released soon. The POWs are being held in accordance with the law, the resistance official said.
Takaung is located on the border between Sagaing and Mandalay Regions. It borders Tigyaing to the north, Kawlin, Kyunhla and Kanbalu to the west and Mabein in northern Shan State to the east.
Takaung, an ancient town with historical heritage, is located on the banks of the Irrawaddy River and has over 3,000 households.
Sent by NMG.