Clashes between KUN and SPDC troops

DVB ( 16 October, 2003 )

While the SPDC is ‘offering’ the KNU to return to ‘legal fold’, its troops are constantly attacking the rebels’ bases in massive number.

The SPDC troops and DKBA fighters are launching massive offensives on the KNU bases at Maepalae region of Myawaddy Township, Karen State. Many soldiers were killed during the clashes and these offensives are the largest since the KNU lost its HQs at Manerplaw.

DVB’s Khaing Thazin reports:

Khaing Thazin : 11 SPDC battalions and DKBA troops are launching offensives on the areas under the control of KNU’s Brigade 7. The offensives started on the 5 August and there have been daily clashes, said Phado Ah-Toe as follows:

Phado Ah-Toe : The clashes have been occurring everyday during the two months of the offensives. The fighting is still raging on while I am talking to you now. They are using all their ammunitions and we are still resisting them with steely nerve.

The SPDC army is using villagers near Kawkareik, Myawaddy Township and prisoners from police controlled prisons as military porters and landmine sweepers ahead of the attacking troops. Those who were wounded were shot or bayoneted to death on the spot, according to

Phado Ah-Toe.

Some KNU fighters were wounded during the clashes and more than 160 soldiers have been killed. The SPDC soldiers are feeling dejected by the losses and many have been trying to escape to the KNU bases.