Sixty members of People’s Defence Forces (PDF) who agreed to participate in peace initiatives led by the government and the Tatmadaw reintegrated into society on September 10. The group delivered their weapons and ammunition as part of the process to return to lawful status, with the ceremony taking place at Thanlwin Hall, Eastern Command Headquarters.

The returning members comprised ten individuals from Inlay PDFs, three from Yinmabin PDFs, six from the Democratic Protectors of the Land Areas (DPLA), two from the Karenni National Defence Force (KNDF), one each from Pekhon and Loikaw PDFs, and 37 from the Pa-O National Liberation Organisation (PNLO). Collectively, they surrendered 35 firearms, one grenade, 46 magazines, eight bullets, and one propellant charge.

At the event, the region’s chief minister awarded a total of 181.8 million kyats in incentives. These rewards included 2 million kyats per pistol, 7.5 million kyats for a bazooka, 5 million kyats per rifle, 3 million kyats for a double-barrel shotgun, 300,000 kyats per hand grenade, and an additional 200,000 kyats granted individually to each returnee.

Following the ceremony, the former PDF members signed official pledges and were formally handed over to their family members or guardians. Authorities noted that other armed individuals have expressed a desire to rejoin the legal framework. Those wishing to do so are encouraged to report to the nearest Tatmadaw base or police station, where they will be welcomed, assisted, and eligible for cash incentives based on the arms and ammunition they surrender.