A police officer from the Matupi police station in Chin State defected to the Chinland Defence Force Matupi branch (CDF Matupi) with his weapon, a G3 battle rifle, on 23 January.

The police officer, Htet Wai Zaw, said to Mizzima: "When I saw violence against innocent people happening in front of me, I felt as if I was victimized. Witnessing such inhumane acts, I felt as if I was an accomplice. I quit because I really could not accept this behaviour.”

The Chinland Defense Forces warmly welcomed the policeman who will now support and keep civilians safe.

Similarly, a sergeant and a corporal from the army Light Infantry Battalion (521) based in Matupi Township reportedly surrendered with two MA 1 rifles, 550 rounds of ammunition, two grenades and a landmine on 26 January.

As of February, 11 junta troops (soldiers and police) have defected to CDF Matupi.