The town of Momeik in northern Shan State, which was under the control of groups KIA, TNLA and PDF, has been recaptured by the Myanmar military, the State Administration Council (SAC) announced on Sunday.

The SAC accused the rebels of committing atrocities such as killing and kidnapping civilians, extorting money, and burning public buildings.

The military said it launched counter-terrorism operations with the support of artillery and heavy weapons, and engaged with the rebels 16 times before taking over Momeik on 27 January. The rebels fled in different directions, leaving behind weapons, ammunition, bombs, and some corpses, the SAC said.

The SAC claimed that the rebels had used non-military buildings such as monasteries, hospitals, schools, and homes as their fortifications, and planted mines in various places.

The SAC also claimed that the military followed the Rules of Engagement (ROE) and did not harm civilians. However, many buildings in the town were damaged during the clashes, and some military personnel were injured or killed, the SAC said.

The SAC said that the security forces were conducting security and rehabilitation operations in and around Momeik, including clearing mines, removing debris, and repairing schools. The SAC said that it was working with the local people to help the displaced persons return to their homes as soon as possible.