Border fight moves inside

Border fight moves inside

Amid growing tensions between Thailand and Burma, Shan rebel troops have launched a siege of a Burmese forward command post 18 km away from the border, reported S.H.A.N. sources. 

Mongtaw, LIB 314's command post, opposite Wianghaeng District, Chiangmai Province, was attacked by a combined force of Shan fighters from the Shan State Army yesterday. "Forewarned by the Shan seizure of Pang Maisoong right across the border (on 20 May), the Burmese were already expecting the assault," said a source close to the SSA. 

In addition, reinforcements began to arrive from Mongton: IB 65, IB 277 and LIB 519, which were countered with hit-and-run tactics by the Shans. "The Burmese suffered heavy losses, among them Maj Aye Zaw, believed to be the Deputy Commander of IB 65," reported a Thai border watcher. 

An SSA communique issued on 21 May stated it also carried attacks out against Wa positions across Pang Mahpa District, Maehongson Province and Chiangdao District, Chiangmai Province. However, the SSA's main objective was the Mongtaw-Monghta area, Shan rebel sources confided to S.H.A.N.. 

More Burmese troops and weapons are being assembled along positions facing the SSA's Loi Kawwan, opposite Mae Fa Luang District, Chiangrai Province last night, according to SSA sources. "About 50 trucks were unloaded in Mongtoom area (in Monghsat Township)," said a Shan officer. "All night we lay in wait keyed up for the Burmese assault that failed to materialize." 

The Shan State Army South is led by Col. Yawdserk. Two other Shan State Armies SSA 'North' and SSA 'Central' a.k.a. Shan State National Army, enjoy ceasefire agreements with Rangoon.