Troops from Shan State march to Karen front

Troops from Shan State march to Karen front

War

More than a thousand troops assembled in Mongton, opposite Chiangmai, on Monday (20 October 2003) before departing for Karen State on the next day, reported a local source this morning. 

"A friendly officer told us that each battalion was required to contribute one company for the war efforts in the Karen State," said a shopkeeper. 

There are 5 battalions in Mongton: Infantry battalions 65, 225 and 277 and light infantry battalions 519 and 133. Troops from Monghsat, 50 miles in the northeast, arrived at Mongton on Monday evening and left together the following day, said the source who was unable to furnish more details. 

"I believe all units in the Triangle Region (Headquarters: Kengtung) have to go", he added, "but I'm not sure." 

There are more than 40 infantry battalions and light infantry battalions in eastern Shan State. 

According to the Burma Army's structure, there are five companies in each battalion: 1,2,34 and headquarters company. 

Burma Army troops attacking the Karen National Liberation Army's 7th Brigade since 5 August was reported to have retired on 20 October, after suffering heavy losses. (Junta troops call off, S.H.A.N., 21 October 2003)