SHAN STATE – Locals reported that several members of the RCSS/SSA have arrived in Pindaya Township of Danu Self-administered Region.
It is said that the RCSS members arrived at Thitaepin and Thayetpyar Villages, around four miles from Pindaya Town on October 14 night and are reportedly demanding six cans of rice and 20,000 Kyats per household for rations.
“They were fully armed and collected from all houses. Before, they only collected from Shan households but this time, they collected from all households. They also said that they will conscript people next time. The households that cannot provide recruits at that time will have to pay again,” said a resident of Thitaepin Village.
Residents confirmed that they belonged to RCSS based on the seal, uniform, badge and the fact that they spoke Shan.
“Because the junta council is low in numbers, they were told to do collections. This Shan armed forces (RCSS) wouldn’t be here without permission from the junta council. If the junta council did not allow this, they would be in battle already. It might be possible with SSPP,” said a military source active in Pindaya Township.
This is the first time RCSS entered Thitaepin and Thayetpyar Villages that are closest to Pindaya as they chose to do collections at Mai-in, Nyaungkaut, Peinaekone and Nyaungwun Villages that are further from the town in the previous months.
RCSS spokesperson Major Khan San was contacted to comment on the situation but did not respond.
Residents reported that there are fierce battles between RCSS and SSPP around Kyaukgu Village in Yaksauk Township that is close to Pindaya.
