Briefs

Briefs 

Wa producing counterfeit banknotes 

Wei Hsaitang, commander of the Wa forces in Mongyawn, Monghsat township, has been manufacturing Burmese paper currencies for some months assisted by a Thai businessman, said an insider source on New Year's Day. A faked thousand kyat note was given to S.H.A.N. as evidence. 

Wei Hsaitang a.k.a. Ta Htang, 48, is a native of Pangwai. He became prominent during the 1989-96 battle for Doilang, opposite Mae Ai district, Chiangmai province. He commands Brigade 894 in Mongyawn. 
Wei holds a blue Highlanders card issued by Thailand. His 5 wives are reported to have citizens card, according to a border-based LNDO source. 

Update 

Wei was recalled to Pangsang, the UWSA Captial in the north, later in the month. It was not clear whether or not his removal was due to this report. He was replaced by Ta-Leu.

Funeral on New Year's Day 

Col Yawdserk's eldest son, Yawd Wansai, 21, was cremated at the cemetery of Mawngpin, Fang district, 160 km north of Chiangmai, on 1 January. The funeral was attended by 3,000 guests from far and near. 

Yawd Wansai died on 18 December during a swimming accident.