Buddhist Thailand and Buddhist Burma swap fire on Buddha

Buddhist Thailand and Buddhist Burma swap fire on Buddha's Day

Reports coming from the border say there has been an exchange of fire between Burmese and Thai troops throughout the day across the border between Mongton of Shan State and Chiangmai. 

Beginning 06:00, the IB 225 (Mongton) unit posted at Pakhee, recently retaken from the Shans, began to shell the Thai base of Nawlae in Fang District, they said. It was joined later by Wa contingents. 

"It's not the Burmese shooting at the Shans anymore," said a Thai village headman. "Now it's the Burmese against the Thais." 

The Thai army spokesman however said the combined Burmese-Wa force had violated the boundary by 400 meters and that it had filed a complaint through Maesai, Chiangrai Province. He did not mention any resumption of hostilities between the two armies. 

The event coincides with Buddha's Day, observed by all Buddhists around the world. 

Meanwhile, Burma Army units have also attacked Ponghpa-Pongtawng base taken by the Shans during the height of the battle at Pakhee. The base is west of Sanzu, where fighting that began yesterday still continues. 

Sanzu is opposite Pong Namrawn Tract, Fang District, while Ponghpa-Pongtawng is opposite Mawnpin Tract in the same district. 

Reporting Time: 19:00