20: Junta prepares to attack SSA-S
News - Mizzima NewsWritten by Myo Gyi
Thursday, 21 September 2006
A major military operation is in the offing by the combined forces of the Burma Army and Wa ethnic armed forces against Shan rebels in eastern Shan State, according to rebel sources.
Battalions No. 14 and 18 under the Golden Triangle Military Command are preparing to launch an attack on the Shan State Army -South's Loikawone base in Kyaington (Kengtung) in Burma, opposite Chiang Rai in Thailand.
The United Wa Solidarity Army, an ally of the military junta and local militias were summoned to Mongpan and Linkhe by the junta government, said a SSA -S source.
"We are ready to fight back. We are not concerned," said a SSA officer on condition of anonymity.
According to Aung Kyaw Zaw, Burmese military analyst based on the China-Burma border, fighting broke out thrice in the first and second week between the troops of Infantry battalion 334 and about 70 SSA-S soldiers. At least 10 soldiers of the Burmese Army were killed.
"They really want to clear out the Kyaington battle field. Since there is no political stability in Thailand right now they need to discuss with the Thais. It is too close to Thailand and therefore difficult to fire. However, there could be a limited operation," he said.
