Phyo Thant commanded the 4 Military Operations Command and was then moved up the army’s hierarchy to become a senior army commander in 2021 with his appointment to command the Northwestern Regional Military Command. He commanded Northwestern Regional Military Command with the rank of Brigadier General until 5 January 2022. While holding the rank of Brigadier General commanding the Northwestern Regional Military Command there was at least one alleged disappearance, killing, rape or torture committed by unit(s) under his command. He was appointed Deputy Minister for Border Affairs on 10 January 2022 with the rank of Brigadier General. He was then promoted in rank to Major General by at least 7 March 2023 while still serving as Deputy Minister for Border Affairs.