Mizzima

Last week the Karen National Union (KNU) central command announced that a soldier from the Infantry Battalion (32) of the Military Council, based in Kyarinseikgyi Township, Karen State, who had defected to join the KNU, was given a reward of 5 million Kyat.

Sai Phyo Aung, a 22-year-old soldier, surrendered to Company (2) of KNLA Battalion (17).

"I attempted to flee from the Myanmar army due to my dissatisfaction with the unjust and oppressive system of the Military Council. I sought refuge to the KNU and expressed my intention to collaborate and fight alongside the ethnic armed revolutionaries until the military dictatorship is over," stated Sai Phyo Aung, as quoted by the KNU.

The KNU reported that when Sai Phyo Aung deserted from the Military Council, he was in possession of a MA-1 assault rifle, five boxes of magazines, 75 rounds of ammunition, and a pair of military uniforms. As a result, he was granted a subsidy of 5 million Kyat.

The KNU has made a statement expressing their open invitation to soldiers under the Military Council to join the side of the people. They have assured these soldiers that if they bring weapons with them, they will be provided with monetary compensation equivalent to the value of the weapons. Furthermore, the KNU has pledged to support their livelihoods.