Karen forces seize Myanmar military base in strategic Mutraw area

KAYIN STATE — Karen armed forces have seized a Myanmar military base in the strategic Mutraw (Hpapun) area, following sustained attacks by allied resistance groups, according to local reports.

On 28 April 2026, the Karen Information Center (KIC) reported that the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA), in coordination with allied forces, captured the "Kabaw Tu" base from the Myanmar military on 25 April in Lu Thaw Township.

The base, located in the Mutraw area between Hpapun and Kamamaung, had been considered a key strategic position used by Myanmar forces to control transport routes and security in the region for nearly 30 years.

Sources said the operation was carried out through a siege-style offensive, with Myanmar forces attempting to defend the position while also relying heavily on airstrikes to repel the advance.

KNLA Brigade 5 spokesperson Lt. Col. Saw Kler Doh said Myanmar forces conducted near-daily aerial bombardments prior to the capture, but the base was fully seized by KNLA troops at around midday on 25 April.

Following the takeover, KNLA and allied forces conducted clearing operations in surrounding areas. However, details on seized weapons and casualties from both sides have not been disclosed.

The capture of Kabaw Tu follows a series of recent gains by resistance forces. In late March, KNLA and allies also seized two other Myanmar military bases in northern Hpapun, including Tae Nay Jo and Kaw Soe Jo.

Since the 2021 coup in Myanmar, the Mutraw area has become a key battleground between the military and resistance forces, with ongoing clashes reported across the region.

Currently, around 10 Myanmar military bases remain in the area, including the main Hpapun base, while pro-military Border Guard Forces continue to reinforce positions amid fears of escalating fighting.