11-8-2024 (YANGON) The northern Shan State city of Lashio witnessed a significant influx of United Wa State Army (UWSA) troops on Tuesday, marking a notable escalation in the region’s complex political landscape.
According to local Shan media outlets, a convoy of approximately ten large trucks, prominently displaying UWSA flags, was observed traversing the Tanyang-Mairei road en route to Lashio. This substantial deployment has raised eyebrows among residents and political observers alike, prompting questions about the motivations behind this military manoeuvre.
Attempts to reach U Nyi Rang, the official responsible for Lashio’s external relations office, for comment on this recent development have thus far proved unsuccessful. The lack of official communication has led to speculation and concern among the local populace.
This latest troop movement follows a previous UWSA deployment on 27 July, when security forces entered Lashio at the behest of various ethnic groups in the area. At that time, the UWSA stated that their presence was intended to safeguard their external liaison office and assets within the city.
U Nyi Rang had previously confirmed that the UWSA had sought and obtained consent from the various factions involved in the city’s ongoing conflict before their initial entry. He emphasised the UWSA’s commitment to neutrality, stating that their forces would not align with any particular side or offer support in the current hostilities.
Major General Zaw Min Tun, speaking on behalf of the State Administration Council (SAC), disclosed that the UWSA had informed the Tatmadaw (Myanmar’s armed forces) in advance of their entry into Lashio. This communication suggests a level of coordination between the UWSA and the military government, though the exact nature of their relationship remains unclear.
