Killings Leading To Disputes Between Junta and Ceasefire Group

Killings Leading To Disputes Between Junta and Ceasefire Group 

Killing by junta troops of a Shan ceasefire group has ignited heated arguments between the two, reported DIN from the north. 

Recent killings of 5 Shan State Army (North)'s men, including an officer, led to a fierce quarrel between Sao Kaifah, Vice President, SSA-North, and an unidentified commander of the Burmese column in Mongyai, Lashio District on 11 January, said DIN. "According to the source, the two were pointing fingers at each other and almost came to blows". 

The immediate cause of the dispute was said to be the shooting of 2 SSA North's men who were bathing in the village of Loizay, Tangyan Township, earlier in the day by an unidentified SPDC unit. The two died on the spot. "1 weapon and 1 walkie-talkie were also taken from them", said DIN. 

There had been similar incidents that had infuriated the SSA-North's commanders. 

Pvt. Htoon, son of Pulek and Naiman, Battalion 137, was killed at Wanhpai village, Look Khuekkhai Tract, Mongyai Township in August, 1999; and Sgt. Maj. Sai Parn a.k.a Piammong, son of Khing Htoon and Naiyoong, and Pvt. Sai Woon, son of Loong Ji and Pa Ing, both from Battalion 851, were killed at Wan-nawng Village, Wan-nawng Mongtung Tract, Hsipaw Township on 5 November 1999, according to DIN. 

As all the 5 victims were from Brigade 1, many officers and men were enraged, including its commander, Col. Parngfah, who is also serving as the Chief of Staff of the SSA North. Its President, Sao Loimao, also went to submit a formal complaint to Military Intelligence-9. 

DIN's sources believed that the SPDC forces, humiliated by coming off second-best in their clashes with the non-ceasefire group of Yawdserk, were just trying to even things up by shooting unsuspecting ceasefire troops. 

"So far, we have been patient", a Shan commander was reported to have said. "But we are increasingly being pressured by the rank and file to retaliate, if the provocation continues".