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BKKPost (21-12-99)



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<font size=7><b>Junta troops launch raids on Shan base<br>
</font><font size=3>Subin Khuenkaew<br>
</font><font size=5>T</font></b><font size=3>ension is mounting on the
border after 4,000 Burmese troops attacked the Shan State Army's
stronghold opposite Ban Therd Thai in Chiang Mai, on Saturday.<br>
Lt-Col Pha Muang, chief of the SSA's Suadam battalion, said the attack
was a reprisal for a raid by his men on drug plants run by the
pro-Rangoon Wa.<br>
A source said five Muser guards at the plant were killed in the raid in
which the Shan seized more than 400,000 methamphetamine tablets.<br>
Rangoon units had also attacked the Shan base on Dec 13 and 15, said the
source.<br>
Lt-Col Chainarong Klaewkla, commander of the Phamuang Force's 135th
battalion, believed Burmese troops would continue to attack Shan rebels
operating opposite Chiang Dao and Wiang Haeng districts, Chiang 
Mai.<br>
Thai authorities are preparing for an influx of Shan villagers.<br>
Sources said about 5,500 Shan rebels, led by Col Yod Suek, have set up
bases near the Thai border.<br>
A base opposite Mae Hong Son is under the command of Lt-Col Kham Laeng.
Lt-Col Tuen Kheu commands troops based opposite Chiang Rai while Lt-Col
Pha Muang heads troops encamped opposite Chiang Mai.<br>
The SSA had been under the command of Khun Sa until Feb 12, 1996, when
Col Yod Suek too over.<br>
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