Myanmar's ruling regime has replaced six brigadier generals who surrendered to the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) in Kokang. The generals, now in custody in Naypyitaw, are reportedly undergoing questioning by the regime. Following their surrender in Laukkai on January 5, at least five colonels have taken over their positions.

The former Laukkai operations commanderBrig-Gen Moe Kyaw Thu who led the surrender talks with the MNDAA, has been replaced by Colonel Myo Min Htwe from the 11th Light Infantry Division (LID). Brig-Gen Tun Tun Myint, the Northeastern Command chief, was replaced by the Langkho commander Colonel Thant Tin Soe. Other replacements include Colonel Aung Kyaw Moe heading the 12th Military Operations Command, Colonel Aung Soe Min leading 55 LID, and Colonel Maung Maung Lay becoming the 16th Military Operations Command chief.

After surrendering, the six generals were flown to Lashio in a junta helicopter and detained at the Northeastern Command before facing a military tribunal in Naypyitaw. A former captain who defected to the resistance suggests that the replacements indicate impending punishment or removal from the military for the surrendered generals.

Colonel Myint Shwe from the military appointments office now heads the 101st LID, following the capture of the former chief by the Ta’ang National Liberation Army. Colonel Kyaw Thura from the National Defense College has been appointed to head the Seventh Military Operations Command based in Pekon Township, southern Shan State. Despite having little combat experience, the new appointees are perceived as loyal to junta boss Min Aung Hlaing.

BOB Post