Public concerns high in northern Shan State amid territorial conflicts between EAOs
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Hsu/ Thuta Kyaw (NP News) - May 8
Ethnic insurgents, involving: the KIA (Kachin), MNDAA (Kokang), and TNLA (Ta’ang) are engaged in conflicts over land control in northern Shan State raising concerns among locals, according to the reports.
In northern Shan State, tensions escalated in mid-April when the TNLA ordered the closure of the KIA Liaison Office in Kutkai Township and warned the KIA members to leave the town. Additionally, clashes erupted between the MNDAA and TNLA in Maw Han Village, located between Kutkai and Tamoenye townships, resulting in casualties.
On 19 April, tensions rose between the TNLA and MNDAA in Kutkai Township when the TNLA demanded the removal of an MNDAA flag from the Department of Construction and ordered them to vacate the premises.
In the sanctuary where KIO currently holds control in Kutkai township, the TNLA destroyed KIA’s signboard and prohibited KIA and PDF soldiers from wandering in Namtu and Mantong townships wearing their uniforms or stationing near and around the town.
A resident familiar with the tensions remarked, 'These are just a few notable incidents; there are many more underlying frictions. These issues have been escalating since Operation 1027. The latest information I have is that the TNLA has instructed KIO to relocate their office in Nant Phat Kar village. In another incident, the TNLA prevented the KIO from refilling their fire engine at the creek claiming that the creek is within their controlled territory. They reportedly beat villagers fetching water, damaged the fire engine, and threatened by shooting in the air. When the KIA soldiers arrived, a clash reportedly ensued. Many such incidents remain unreported, suggesting a heightened readiness for conflict."
Local media reported that the MNDAA delivered a letter to the KIA office in Mone Koe Township on 23 April. The letter stated that the MNDAA would not grant permission for construction in the Kachin Traditional Manaw Hall.
Locals expressed heightened concerns saying, “With tensions rising between three groups, the possibility of renewed hostilities could force us to flee again, abandoning our homes and livelihoods. We fear losing our fragile stability and are unsure if the groups can negotiate a peaceful resolution."
Local residents also reported that the TNLA issued warnings in March for KIA and PDF outposts to evacuate Bawtwin in Namtu Township. Additionally, reports indicate that the TNLAhas destroyed a KIA checkpoint.
Another local from northern Shan State commented, “The on-ground situation is becoming increasingly complex, as the armies of different armed troops are operating in the same areas, leading to conflicts between them. In Kutkai Township, for instance, number of TNLA soldiers appears to outnumber other groups. MNDAA forces are also present in the same region. It can be inferred that TNLA is attempting to assert sole control over the area.”
On 13 April, in response to the territorial conflicts among ethnic armed groups, General Gun Maw delivered a speech via social media to MNDAA and TNLA, urging them to refrain from any thoughts of fighting over territory and its ownership.
"In his speech, General Gun Maw stated, 'Regarding northern Shan State and the Kachin Sub-state, we need to stay focused on our goals. Abandon the mentality that military dominance grants sole ownership of territory. I addressed this directly during my visits to Mone Koe and Hpawnghseng, meeting with Kokang and TNLA representatives."
General Gun Maw acknowledged the need to defend territory through military strength. However, he emphasized that complete control and domination out of these military strengths are unacceptable, as these lands already have established owners. He expressed frustration that his message wasn't well-received. Drawing a historical parallel, he mentioned the British Empire, which once held vast territories but ultimately granted independence to their rightful owners.