Junta Officer

Junta Officer: Dealing in Drugs Okay Until 200 

A close subordinate of Gen Khin Nyunt was reported to have told a group of drug operators in eastern Shan State that they could engage in drugs until the year 2005, reported an informed source from the border. 

Maj. Nyan Myint, company commander, LIB 225, who is reported to be a loyal subordinate of Lt. Gen. Khin Nyunt, Secretary -1 of the State Peace and Development Council, told a group of drug operators in Mongtaw, Mongton Township, "The State's goal is to make the trans-Salween areas a drug-free zone by the year 2005. It implies that people can engage in drug activities for the next 5-6 years. Opportunity comes to those of you who are astute.

Anyone of you who needs me, I'll be happy to render my assistance and cooperation to him". 

The meeting was held towards the end of July, he said. 

The report tallied with what the CNN reported in January of Gen. Khin Nyunt's meeting with Pao Yuchang, the Wa leader, in Panghsang, where Pao told Secretary - 1: "If we have any more poppy here after 2005, you can come back and chop my head off". 

Mongtaw is the headquarters of Col. Win Kyi, Commander of the Military Operations Command there. It used to be where Khun Seng a.k.a Chang Ping-yuan, uncle of Khun Sa, operated his laboratories. It now boasts three "factories", said the source. 

One is a heroin refinery reportedly owned by Tin Win, Lahu militia leader, and Hla Aung a.k.a Li Shen, ex-MTA commander. Khun Sa's second son, Zam Hurng a.k.a Chang Weigang, is believed to own a share in this factory. 
Another is also a joint venture between Khing Pi Lisaw and Yang Er. It produces heroin but also presses amphetamine powder, bought from the notorious Wei Xuegang, into tablets. 

The third one, newly set-up, is operated by Liu Zipeng a.k.a Sai Yi a.k.a Muling "the Red Cap", Hsiao Yin and Li Zigao. Li was arrested by the Shan State Army South of Yawdserk on 3 September on drug charges and was reported later to have escaped his captors on 14 September.