S.H.A.N. : SLORC WANTS EX-MTA MEN O

[H.NG.P SPM" <100706.1311@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx]

Subject: S.H.A.N. : SLORC WANTS EX-MTA MEN ONLY AS PORTERS NOT MILITIA

S.H.A.N. : SLORC WANTS EX-MTA MEN ONLY AS PORTERS NOT MILITIA
January 19, 1996

According to a highly placed source from Rangoon, the SLORC, despite initial
agreement with the MTA's envoys to reorganize its post-surrender status as a
militia unit, is pushing the latter to totally disband itself and become
ordinary civilians at the former's mercy.

In a secret directive, radioed a few days ago to SLORC's representative in Ho
Mong, Gen Khin Nyunt instructed him to " absolutely demilitarize " the MTA  " in
rapid stages ". The report put the option of becoming a homeguard unit totally
out of the question.

In the meantime, reports have been received that all " retired " soldiers of the
MTA are being given 
K 2,000 each and being flown by helicopters to Lang Kho, where they are being
put into units of porters who carry supplies from the depot there down to
Salween crossing.

A reliable source has also reported that Maj Kham Pha, once a most loyal
follower of Khun Sa, has gone with 1,000 troops deeper into Kengtung territory
from the Pa Kae stronghold opposite Chiang Rai province of his immediate
superior, Col. Sulai, who surrender to the Burmese authorities yesterday. It is
not yet known where his destination is.
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