This footage, recorded by a People's Defense Force (PDF) unit in Myanmar, shows them ambushing a car being used by their pro-junta counterparts, the Mon Peace Defense Force (hereafter, MPDF for clarity). The image in the top right depicts weapons seized from the vehicle after the ambush.

In any rebellion or insurgent conflict, both sides will foster and make use of irregular troops and militias. It was true in the American civil war, on through the Troubles in Ireland, and now in Myanmar. Here, we see the anti-junta PDF getting the drop on the pro-junta MPDF. Given the comparative dearth of information and footage coming from pro-junta units, PDF teams seem to be much more prevalent and widely established than MPDF or other pro-junta irregulars; this is further borne out by footage from PDF which most frequently involves Myanmar government forces or local police, rather than loyalist militias.

While the number of fighters in the white car was not disclosed, the presence of three long arms and several grenades would naturally suggest a group of about three.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

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