Some 35 junta troops from Reed military outpost in Falam Township on the India-Myanmar border stationed on Ti O Chaung Hill in Ward 2 have fortified their positions, according to the Chin Defence Force (CDF).

Hualngoram, a spokesman for the CDF, said to Mizzima: "The place where the junta troops are now stationed is an important place for military operations. It controls the border creek and the village below. It seems that they are fortifying [their positions].”

No immediate action has been taken for the time being, but residents of five nearby houses have been forced out of their homes. People have observed that trenches are being dug to transform the position into a long-term outpost.

At a meeting between military leader Min Aung Hlaing and chief ministers in Nay Pyi Taw on 13 February, the Chin State Chief Minister, Ngun San Aung asked for an increase in military forces to counter the CDF and People’s Defence Forces (PDF) control of border trade gates and roads. It is because of this request that the military is fortifying its positions in the area.

But, because the border trade and the local economy are completely controlled by the local defence forces who are also trying to run the local administration, they claim any military expansion will have little effect.

The CDF urged all Chin people to stay away from the junta, and said that no matter what the situation, they will stand by the people through thick and thin and fight against the dictator.