The Shan State Progress Party (SSPP) spokesperson said they have rejected the military regime’s call for the armed group to abandon its camp in Panglong Township in northern Shan State.

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Lt-Col Sai Hsu said they don’t accept the military’s ultimatum ordering them to move their soldiers out of the Sa Ning – Hpoung Hseng area so that the army can launch its anti-narcotic campaign because the letter sent by the Military Security Affairs (MAS) under Central Eastern Command in Hkolam town in southern Shan State does not bear an official seal or signature.

The regime wants to force them out to take control of the area, the SSPP spokesperson told SHAN.

“The military is trying to destroy poppy plantations in the region,” he said. “Instead, it should distribute (alternative) seeds for poppy substitution, create market opportunities for it…provide narcotic awareness etc., before launching a anti-drug campaign.” Sai Hsu said locals have been growing poppies in the area long before the coup because the soil isn’t fertile enough to grow anything else.

He said they didn’t respond to army orders, but will fight back if soldiers try to invade their territory. “We will not withdraw our troops from the region. So far we have not negotiated with MAS about this.”

The SSPP had clashed with the Restoration Council of Shan State multiple times in Sa Ning and Hpoung Hseng areas in June 2021 before gaining control of western Panglong Township. Since then, the military has demanded for the SSPP to withdraw several times and threatened to attack them.

Ner Yai, SSS and Mert Jang People’s Militia Forces, under the regime, are all involved in the illicit drug trade in the area, but their activities are tolerated by the regime.