Growing Momentum of Defections and Surrenders from the Junta Forces (2023–2025)

According to recent data compiled by People’s Goal, the total number of defectors, surrenders, and prisoners of war (PoWs) from the junta’s ranks has reached 9,352 as of October 2025. This figure includes soldiers, police officers, and militia members, reflecting the growing cracks within the military regime’s structure.

From 2023 to 2025, an estimated 3,242 soldiers defected, 956 surrendered, and 3,670 were captured as PoWs, bringing the total number of soldiers who have left the junta’s control to 7,868. Similarly, 846 police personnel and 638 militia members have also defected, surrendered, or been captured within the same period.

These numbers paint a clear picture of declining morale and weakening cohesion within the regime’s security apparatus. The steady stream of defections and surrenders suggests increasing disillusionment and a shift in loyalty among those once enforcing the junta’s rule.