Border briefs

Border briefs

Sunday killings committed by Wa 

A source close to the United Wa State Army disclosed on Wednesday, 13 February, that the attack in, Marklang, near Doilang, opposite Mae Ai District of Chiangmai on Sunday, 10 February, was staged by the Wa.

He said this was admitted by a Wa officer although the reason for the killings was not given except that the Wa would continue to struggle against the Burmese (military).

One reason, said a border watcher, was the abrupt recall of Wei Hsaitang, a popular commander from Mongyawn, to Panghsang, the UWSA headquarters.

Burma army snoopers nabbed by Thai army

4 Burmese soldiers in civilian garb were caught in Thai territory on Monday, 11 February. They were taken in at a place between the village of Nawngtao and Border Pass-2 (BP-2) in Fang District, Chiangmai province.

"At first they denied they were soldiers," said the source, "but later admitted they had been detailed to find out information on Thai and Shan movements."

The 4 were Sgt. Saw Aung, privates Kyaw Htun, Zaw Zaw and Maung Maung from Pakhee outpost, the scene of fierce fighting last April and May. The base is manned by Lt. Nay Oo Hlaing of Company 4, LIB 328 (Mongkhark).

Kachin leader of Wa passes away

Zau Mai, who was one of the Kachin rebel leaders that revolted against Rangoon in 1949, passed away in Panghsang on 31 January, according to Thai sources.

Zau Mai, together with Naw Seng, the top leader, took refuge in China after the rebellion was crushed. They returned to Burma in 1968 with the Communist Party of Burma's People's Army. Naw Seng was killed during a "hunting accident", but Zau Mai stuck it out with the CPB until 1989 when the Wa mutiny led to its collapse.
Zau Mai was serving as a Vice Chairman of the Wa "Government" at the time of his death.

Wei Hsuehkang is reported to be one of the Wa seniors tipped to succeed him. Some thought he might be able to smooth out relations with Rangoon, being a "close friend" of Gen. Khin Nyunt.

Correction: 

Last day's report says Brig Gen Chit Than, commander of the Triangle Region, had attended the border meeting in Tachilek. As Bangkok Post today points out, Lt-Col Htoo Aung, Commander, LIB 526, appeared in his stead.