4 October 2025
The government has been encouraging members of armed opposition groups, known as the People’s Defense Forces (PDF), to return to the legal fold. Yesterday, 30 members from the Democratic Progressive League Army (DPLA), the Karen National Defense Force (KNDF), the People’s National Liberation Organization (PNLO), the Karenni National Liberation Front, and the PDF, who support the state’s peace process and the military, have re-entered the legal fold along with their weapons and ammunition.
Reports indicate that members of ethnic armed groups and People’s Defense Forces (PDF) who have aligned themselves with the legal framework have abandoned the armed struggle and returned to peaceful coexistence. This change is largely due to their experiences of being forcibly recruited, threatened, and witnessing the arrest and killing of innocent civilians and civil servants for the benefit of terrorist organizations. They have been responsible for detonating mines on infrastructure, including roads and bridges that are not legitimate military targets.
Officials welcomed 30 members at a handover ceremony held today at the Eastern Military Command, Thanlwin Hall. This group included 12 members from the DPLA, 1 member from the KNDF, 4 members from the PNLO, 1 member from the Karenni National Liberation Front, and 12 members from the PDF. These individuals had returned to the legal system and were handed over to their parents and guardians. The ceremony was attended by Shan State Chief Minister U Aung Aung, the Commander of the Region, Brigadier General Naing Zaw Oo, departmental officials, the members who returned to the legal system, and their parents.
Following that, the Chief Minister of the State, along with the Regional Commander and other officials, presented awards and certificates to individuals who had returned to the law, along with their surrendered weapons and ammunition. They also had the individuals sign a pledge of allegiance before handing them over to their parents or guardians. One of those who returned expressed gratitude for the opportunity.
Those who have returned to the law are being welcomed back and provided with the necessary support, and they are systematically handed over to their parents or guardians. It has been noted that there are still individuals who wish to return to the law. Those interested in doing so should immediately contact the nearest military camps or police stations to report their intention. They will be welcomed, receive the necessary support, and rewards will be offered for the surrendered weapons and ammunition.
#Legal fold #Armed Group #PDF #mtnews
