Karen rebels scramble to outdo themselves

Karen rebels scramble to outdo themselves

War

According to the latest disclosure from the Karen National Liberation Army, the armed wing of the Karen National Union, the number of clashes with the Burma Army and its allies had markedly increased to almost 3 clashes killing 2 and wounding 4 per day during the period 13 September - 19 October. 

Before it was 1 clash 2 casualties per day. (Karen rebels release battle news, SHAN, 28 August 2003) 

The sharp rise was due to Rangoon's offensive that began on 5 August and ended on 20 October, with the Karen claiming to have inflicted more than 300 casualities to the junta forces. (Junta troops call off Karen offensive, S.H.A.N., 21 October 2003)

The Hmawbi-based Military Operations Command #4 had pulled off to its rear positions "to lick its wounds," according to Karen Spokesman Saw Sarky, leaving Light Infantry Battalion 703 to hold the front. "The 703rd is in dire conditions suffering casualties almost daily," he declared. "Retreating enemy shldiers are also being ambushed almost daily." 

On 31 October, two patrols from the KNLA's 6th Brigade ambushed the pro-Rangoon Democratic Karen Buddhist Army's 907th Battalion trying to rejoin its units near Waley, opposite Tak's Phobpra district. "Both intercepted radio messages and local sources confirmed the renegades suffered 6 dead and 13 wounded," said Saw Sarky. "Among the dead was a captain and lieutenant." 

The rebels also claimed to have captured one 60mm mortar and one 57m recoilless rifle among others. 

"We are willing to negotiate for a peaceful settlement," he continued, claiming support for the ENSCC roadmap. (Third force offers third roadmap, S.H.A.N., 5 September 2003) "But if the enemy is bent on continued aggression against our people, it will be time to show the enemy that in war, not only the common foot soldiers and low ranking officers suffer, but also their high commanders who are hiding behind their front line troops whom they are using as cannon fodder. We are going to bring the war to them." 

He promised to hit only military and economic targets. "We have profound respect for innocent civilian life," he stressed. 

According to several sources, Rangoon is preparing a fresh offensive against the Karens, bringing spare troops from other areas. (Troops from Shan State march to Karen front, S.H.A.N., 24 October 2003)

Courtesy: Saw Sarky
Credit: KNLA, 6^th Brigade