Regime’s claims of resistance defections seen as psychological warfare

By Admin 21 Mar 2026

DMG Newsroom

21 March 2026, Mrauk-U

Myanmar’s military regime’s recent claims of resistance fighters surrendering in large numbers are being viewed by political observers and revolutionary sources as a form of psychological warfare aimed at weakening opposition forces.

In recent statements, junta-controlled media reported that members of various revolutionary groups, including the People’s Defence Force (PDF) and the Arakan Army (AA), had surrendered and returned to the “legal fold.”

In one case, 20 men and one woman, along with a male Arakan Army member, were said to have surrendered with weapons and ammunition.

The regime also said a ceremony was held at Aye Chan Phyo Hall under the Southern Command to hand over the defectors to their families.

Political analysts said the primary objective of such reports is to create division among revolutionary groups and undermine their morale.

“The regime is preparing to form a new government. Historically, it has used various tactics to sow discord among revolutionary forces. These claims are part of that pattern,” said an Arakanese political observer. “While some defections may occur, reports of large groups surrendering at once should be viewed with skepticism.”

The regime has claimed that internal divisions, poor living conditions and pressure from military offensives are driving defections, and has offered incentives to encourage others to follow.

On March 19, junta media also reported that 506 members from the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), Arakan Army (AA), and resistance forces under the National Unity Government (NUG) had surrendered at a ceremony in Mandalay.

However, observers noted that the identities and faces of those presented as defectors were concealed in released images, raising questions about the credibility of the claims.

Captain Zin Yaw, a Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) participant, said the lack of transparency suggests the reports are propaganda.

“I believe this is purely propaganda. In our experience, we have not seen Arakan Army members surrender with weapons. If it were genuine, full details would be disclosed,” he said.

Revolutionary groups have urged members and the public to remain alert to the military’s “divide and rule” tactics.

Analysts also noted that the regime is attempting to project political legitimacy following its election process and the convening of parliament, and is likely amplifying such narratives to weaken resistance momentum.