Wei takes a beating

War

Wei takes a beating

The Wa attackers retired from their advanced postilions yesterday after 5-days of self-destructive assaults on the Shan State Army bases opposite Maehongson's Pang Mapha district, according to Wa sources in Mongton.

The suicidal human wave charges directed against Shan positions near Mailan village, Mae Lana tract, on 3 March had resulted in at least 53 wounded Wa fighters who were being treated at Mongton hospital, opposite Chiangmai's Chiangdao district. Another series of charges on 5 March ended with no less than 60 casualties on the Wa side. No casualty reports are available on the SSA side, although a high-level source conceded that it has been quiet since yesterday.

"We saw no evidence of Burma Army participation in the battle," he added.

Shan sources in Hwe Aw, Mongton township, meanwhile reported arrival of 10 ten truckloads of provisions for the United Wa State Army's Military Region Commanded by Wei Hsuehkang on 4 April. Wei's younger brother, Hsuehying, has a home outside the village.

According to earlier reports, the Burma Army has promised 3 items of support for Wei's operation: supplies, ammunition and artillery.

Related report: Wei lays siege to SSA, 5 April 2005