Shan forces on Army's look-out

War

Shan forces on Army's look-out

The Lashio-based Northeastern Region Command has been on red alert against Shan ceasefire groups since 16 May, a day before the National Convention to lay down constitution principles met, reported S.H.A.N. reporter from northern Shan State, quoting both Burmese and Shan sources.

Both Kyaukme-based Military Operations Command #2 and Hsenwi-based Military Operations Command #16 were ordered to keep a close watch on the movements of the 7 brigades under the command of the Shan State Peace Council, a joint command of the Shan State Army "North" and Shan State National Army despite the fact that truce agreements with Rangoon are still in place and their 7 delegates are attending the Convention.

Radio operators are also working around the clock to monitor and report on any unusual activities carried out by the SSPC, especially the SSNA, now under the command of Col Sai Yi since the sudden death of its former boss, Col Gunyawd, on 14 March.

Col Sai Yi, 46, a laconic man, has never tried to hide his close relationship with Col Yawdserk, leader of the Shan State Army "South", whose ceasefire overtures had never been accepted by Rangoon.

Visits by Lt-Gen Aung Htwe, Governor of Shan State and Commander of the Bureau of Special Operations #2 early this month and the deputy quartermaster general (name yet to be confirmed) currently on tour in southern Shan State, have been closely followed by border watchers, some of whom are expecting an imminent offensive against Shan bases along the border despite the monsoons.

"The situation is such when an officer, who was interviewed by a news agency recently, said the group might choose to walk out of the Convention in the event that the junta turned down their 7 point demands, all top leaders were upset," reported a ceasefire source. "The officer concerned was severely reprimanded."

Under the SSPC are the following Brigades: 1st, 3rd, 6th, 7th, 11th, 16th and 19th. The 1st Brigade, commanded by Col Pangfah, with more than 1,800 men, most of them of Wa origins, is believed to be the strongest. Col Sai Yi had also been recognized by the Burmese Commanders both as an intrepid fighter and accomplished tactician.

The SSPC is active in Hsenwi, Lashio, Namhsan, Namtu, Hsipaw, Mongyai and Tangyan Townships.

Meanwhile, state-run New Light of Myanmar reports coordination meetings of labor delegates and other invited guest delegates are being held today at the National Convention.