The Shan States Army Attacked SPDC Garrisons

The Shan States Army Attacked SPDC Garrisons 

Reports coming from the north on 24 July indicated that the Shan States Army of Yawdserk have launched attacks on SPDC garrisons and that the local populace are consequently being subjected to forced portering by the junta troops. 

S.H.A.N sources reported that the garrison in Nawngkio, between Maymyo and Kyaukme, was attacked the SSA on the night of 19 July. The attack lasted two hours. As a result, customs checkpoints and bridges were ordered closed, 18:00 - 06:00 since. 

Another attack reported was the raid on the garrison in Namlan in Hsipaw Township on 20 July which lasted about 20 minutes. 

The SSA has not made any announcement on these attacks. But they were believed to have been carried out by the 198th Brigade, commanded by Lt. Col Sangwi, and the 241st Brigade, commanded by Lt.Col Khun Jaw, with the aim to relieve the beleaguered 758th Brigade of Lt.Col Moengzuen. 

"The local village headmen in Namlan have been ordered to supply the local junta units with on a 48 hour standby basis. They have to bring their own food and plastic sheets (for protection against rain). If the unit is not on the move, the porters have to wait for 48 hours until another batch comes to replace them". 

"The villagers of course complain a lot", he added. "But even the ceasefire groups whose headquarters are nearby could do nothing to relieve their burdens". 

One group, the Shan State Army (Northern), has its HQ in Hsengkeo; while the other, the Shan State National Army, in Khai-sim. Both camps are in Hsipaw Township.