Custody of Wei

Custody of Wei's rival denied

The Wa leadership has disclaimed reports that Wei Hsaitang, known as drug fugitive Wei Hsuehkang's nemesis, was turned over to Burmese authorities last week, said an informed source from Panghsang who is currently visiting Tachilek opposite Chiangrai. 

"Ta Htang (as Wei Hsaitang is known) was not even detained. The leaders just accompanied him to Panghsang where he has a new job waiting for him," the source, who does business with the Wa, quoted Wa leaders as saying. Earlier reports said he was appointed as Commander of 417th Brigade in the north. 

Ta Htang is wanted by Rangoon on charges of printing and distribution of Burmese bank-notes. He is also suspected of having formed a secret alliance with the Shan State Army. However the SSA has denied there had been any dealings with Wei Hsaitang. 

"According to Panghsang (the Wa capital), it was true that Ta Hsai-leu, his close aide, had committed suicide (on 20 May) because of the mistaken impression that his boss had been arrested and handed over to Rangoon," he explained. 

This has been disputed by other sources, who agreed that Ta Hsai-leu was killed in action in Mongyawn, some said by the Burmese force in the Mongyawn area while others said by a rival Wa faction. 

The reports also agree that Li Ziru, 56, powerful chief of staff of the United Wa State Army, is in Mongyawn to manage the situation and so were units from Wei Hsuehkang's 171st Brigade. 

Wei Hsaitang's 894th Brigade, also known as Special Regiment "Tuli T'uan", is reported to have 4 battalions that were battle-hardened during their war with ex-warlord Khun Sa from 1989-1996. 

Elements from the northern 418th Brigade were also seen by Tachilek townspeople yesterday afternoon, when they passed through the town in 18-six wheelers, all marked with Hongpang Company stickers, on their way to Mongyawn. 

Observers say the power of Wei Hsaikang, known as "the Wa's remote control", is rising along the areas bordering Thailand, following the elimination of his arch rival. "The Thai authorities can dismiss hopes about catching him at this time," said a businessman in Tachilek. 

Wei is wanted both in Thailand and the United States on drug charges.