Tatmadaw regains control of Falam, reclaims areas held by CDF affiliates

The military has regained control of Falam and its surrounding areas in Chin State on April 25, after the town had been temporarily held by CDF-affiliated groups, according to sources.

The CDF coalition had launched a large-scale offensive on November 8, 2024, targeting a local battalion and security forces stationed in the town under “Operation Chin Brotherhood”. Security forces reportedly exercised restraint to reduce civilian casualties and limit damage to homes, religious buildings, schools, and hospitals. The fighting continued for about six months, and on May 6, 2025, security forces withdrew due to significant casualties and injuries. Following the withdrawal, the CDF coalition took temporary control of Falam, the statement said.

The Tatmadaw have been preparing and providing necessary support in Kalay and Teddim to quickly retake Falam, a major district capital of Chin State, and to defeat the CDF insurgents. They have begun clearing the area by combining ground and air forces and dividing the columns into separate operations. They have attacked and captured the insurgents’ temporarily held village of Thayar Kone on October 27, 2025, the Natchaung Bridge on October 30, Point-2244 Hill on November 3, Kannedy Hill and Waibula Camp on November 4, Point-2064 Hill on November 8, Tai Ngin Camp on November 9, Point-1361 Hill on November 17, Zaung Kaung Village on November 26, Zwe Lay Village on February 2, 2026, Htin Shu Sakhan Village on February 10, Pa Tae Village on March 31, Bar Bridge on April 19, Khun Li Village on April 22,  Point-1710 hill, Kyung Hin Sha and Sung Haran villages on April 23, Surbung Airport and Si Zar Maw Village on April 24 respectively, and on April 25, the Tatmadaw completely retook control of Falam town.

Tatmadaw columns carried out a total of 109 engagements—both major and minor—against insurgent groups in efforts to retake Falam and its surrounding areas, according to a press release. During the operations, they reportedly seized 19 bodies, 33 weapons, along with ammunition and related equipment. The statement added that some Tatmadaw officers and soldiers lost their lives in the line of duty.

According to the release, CDF insurgents had temporarily occupied Falam and nearby areas, constructing bunkers in religious buildings, schools, government offices, hospitals, and residential homes. They also allegedly used civilian houses as defensive positions while engaging Tatmadaw columns. Efforts are now underway to enable displaced residents to return safely to their homes, restore administrative functions, and prioritize the clearance of landmines planted during the conflict. Authorities said that damaged schools, healthcare facilities, government buildings, religious structures, and homes will be repaired as quickly as possible in coordination with local communities. Security forces also stated they will continue operations aimed at eliminating insurgent groups in Chin State.

Falam, regarded as the second capital of Chin State, hosts state, district, and township administrative offices. It is bordered by Teddim Township to the north and Hakha Township to the south. The town is also home to an airfield on Surbung Mountain, the first airport in the state.

Additionally, Falam serves as a key transit point, providing access to Kalay Township in Sagaing Region and Gangaw Township in Magway Region via the Falam–Hakha Road.