Myanmar: Myanmar’s military has deployed hundreds of troops to the southern Tanintharyi Region in an offensive aimed at clearing areas designated for the Russia-backed Dawei Special Economic Zone (SEZ), according to resistance fighters and a local activist cited by Reuters.
The Dawei project includes a planned deep-sea port and power plant on the Andaman Sea and is being promoted as a potential alternative trade route to the Strait of Malacca. The military offensive has reportedly involved clashes with local resistance groups, village raids and the burning of homes.
Why is the Myanmar military targeting the area?
The offensive coincides with renewed efforts by Myanmar’s military-backed government to revive the Dawei SEZ. Junta chief-turned-President Min Aung Hlaing promoted the project during a visit to Thailand and discussed it with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow this week.
Some Russian companies are reportedly evaluating investments linked to the project, including a power plant.
What has happened during the military offensive?
Resistance fighters said military columns have advanced through villages and conducted area-clearance operations, forcing some resistance groups to retreat. They also alleged that homes were burned in at least three villages and that three aid workers supporting displaced communities were killed after being detained by troops.
A local civil society group said the three aid workers were detained and killed in Yebyu Township on July 9.
Reuters said it could not independently verify the allegations. Myanmar’s government and Russia’s embassy in Myanmar did not respond to requests for comment.