Tatmadawre-enters Lashiofollowing MNDAA withdrawal
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Phyo (NP News) - April 27
After the MNDAA (Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army) groups withdrew from Lashio city, Tatmadaw convoys bearing the flags of the Northeast Military Command began entering the city on the morning of April 22.
The Tatmadaw's return to Lashio, which was controlled by the MNDAA, came after reports emerged in the past few days that the city would be handed over to the State Administration Council (SAC) government. The Tatmadaw's return to Lashio comes after the MNDAA, SAC officials, and the Chinese ceasefire monitoring delegation held talks in the past few days.
It is reported that when entering the city, the Tatmadaw brought in a force of about 2,500 personnel, including infantry units, medical and communication teams, military engineers, and combat troops. They arrived in approximately 70 vehicles to provide security at the regional military headquarters and ward offices.
In addition, many people who had fled Lashio were returning to the city, and the Tatmadaw convoy was welcomed by locals.
“The Kokang has withdrawn. So, there are a lot of people waiting in front of the city hall. The Tatmadaw is there. We also went to welcome them,” a woman living in Lashio told the Statesman Journal.
Furthermore, negotiations are reportedly underway to reopen the Mandalay-Lashio-Muse trade route after the Tatmadaw returned to Lashio.
Due to the fighting in northern Shan State, Myanmar-China border trade has been halted, and exports to China are currently being routed through eastern Shan State, which is costing more.
Currently, for the convenience of locals, Sinphyu Gate is open for motorbikes and bicycles to transport goods, while Nandaw Gate is open for people to enter and exit.
Currently, neither the State Administration Council nor the MNDAA have made any announcements regarding the administration of Lashio, although the MNDAA has removed the Special Region (1) flags from the city since April 21.