Six people were killed during an ambush by an unidentified armed group in Burma’s northern Shan State.
Although local media outlets said the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) attacked a four vehicle convoy carrying newly minted leaders for the Kokang Self-Administered Zone, all of the sources that SHAN spoke to had no idea who the assailants were or who was killed during the violence.
One of the drivers injured during the attack, which happened at 2:30 p.m. on February 5, between Hsenwi and Kunlong townships, was sent to Lashio, according to Sai Harn, who lives there. Another person who was hurt was returned to Kunlong, according to a man, who spoke to SHAN on condition of anonymity. The bodies of the deceased were returned to the areas where they’re from.
After the military seized power of the country last week in a coup d’etat, army chief Min Aung Hlaing arrested lawmakers and formed the State Administrative Council, handpicking ministers and state and region heads, including for the Kokang Self-Administered Zone.
In recent years, the area has seen heavy fighting between MNDAA and Burma Army.
Regarding the attack of the convoy, a man, from Nertee village, who requested anonymity, predicted there will be more violence. “I think this is just beginning. I’m concerned about the possibility of clashes.”
The Burma Army and the Northern Alliance, which the MNDAA is a member of, have each declared an unilateral ceasefire until the end of February.
