Army fuel train attacked

Army fuel train attacked

A train of tankers carrying fuel and asphalt bound for Kengtung was ambushed by a unidentified group of armed men, said sources from the border this morning, following a series of bomb-blasts yesterday. 

The convoy that left Tachilek early today was attacked at Loi Sarmsoong, halfway to Talerh, 35 miles from the city with RPGs destroying two of the trucks. "Two fire engines from Tachilek immediately took off from Tachilek with reinforcements," said a source. 

Lt-Col Kawnzuen, Commander of Kengtung Front, Shan State Army "South" with his base at Loi Kawwan, opposite Mae Fa Luang, stated firmly that his force was not involved. "It is beyond my present range of operation," he claimed. "I'm also curious as to who might be doing this." 

Col Yawdserk was not available for comment. 

Thai security officers also wondered who or which group in the area might be responsible. "The first group that comes into our minds, of course, is the Shan State Army of Yawdserk," said one, "despite its denial. It obviously has sufficient cause to settle accounts with the Burmese army. But it is also true that it has been a long time since they set foot in the area." 

"Next to the Shans, the Wa faction that had been deprived of its commander Wei Hsaitang last year and another one that was pushed out of areas north of Paliao-Kenglarb in March cannot be easily discounted," he pointed out. 

Wei Hsaitang (not a relative of Wei Hsuehkang), commander of the Duli Tuan (Special Regiment) stationed in Mongyawn, was imprisoned in Panghsang on several charges, including currency counterfeiting and secret dealings with the SSA. 

The Wa force along the Mekong area, under the command of Bao Youhua, younger brother of supreme leader Bao Youqiang, after a three-month stand off with the Burmese besiegers, reportedly gave in to pressure from China and evacuated the territory in dispute. "Both of them certainly have sufficient motives," he explained. 

Meanwhile, all 9 private gas stations in Tachilek were ordered close "until things return to normal." 

All vehicles and passengers coming through the town's 4 main checkpoints: Hwe Linlam, Maehok, Poonghtoon and Friendship Bridge #1 are also "more thoroughly scrutinized" before allowing them to pass.