SSA Battles in the North

SSA Battles in the North: Big Losses For Junta Army

According to DIN, S.H.A.N.'s source, in northern Shan State, the SPDC forces have been suffering heavy losses in their campaign against Yawdserk's expeditionary forces.

During an engagement on 20 September near the village of Namlin, Mongheng Tract, Mongyai Township, the Northeastern Command's IB 41 from Lashio, was reported to have suffered up to 70 casualties, among whom was the deputy battalion commander.

" Since June, when Ltc. Moengzuen entered the north into Hsipaw, Mongyai and Tangyan townships, at least seven commissioned officers have been killed, sending a wave of shock into the Burmese Army's rank and file," said Din. "There were even speculations as to whether the officers' deaths were caused by their own men and not the SSA."
Junta officers are known for their heavy-handedness over their enlisted men, DIN said.

Another speculation was whether it might be through the indiscretion of the fighters from the ceasefire groups who accompanied the junta's units on their patxols. " Two fighters were already killed by the Burmese, supposedly by mistake," said DIN. " But the incidents enraged a lot of Shan members of the ceasefire groups, causing them to defect to Yawdserk's SSA."

Nevertheless, the ceasefire groups' " chaperonage" during the Army's campaign was crucial, added DIN. " Members of the ceasefire groups served as interpreters and also as monitors to see that the Burmese soldiers behave themselves in their dealings with the Shan peasantry."

In contrast, the people appeared to be quite happy with the expeditionary force. " They paid for everything they took and that made a big difference in the eyes of the people, who only knew the Burmese soldiers who took everything for free."

DIN added, rather dryly, " But they also hope the SSA doesn't run out of funds."

Meanwhile, it is reported that the SPDC is due to launch a massive campaign with two light infantry divisions, but is being deterred by fear of the Four Nine activities of the opposition in the urban areas.