Rebels seek more recruits
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The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) has asked 14 villages in Mansi Township in Kachin State to give them 15 people from each village, local residents told Eleven Media.
The KIA’s communication officer has, however, denied the report, saying it is impossible. Located near Manwein Village and the Chinese border, the villages are home to ethnic Shan.
“It appeared that the KIA was looking to form a people’s militia to support them. But when we discussed it among ourselves, no one wanted to join [the KIA]. It’s a problem. We haven’t replied yes or no,” said a villager from Mansi.
“In our region, we have to fear both armed groups [the KIA and the government troops]. Two years ago, the KIA asked for two-and-a-half baskets of rice and some salt from each home. The locals are afraid,” said the villager.
“We have yet to receive any report to support that claim,” said La Nan, communications officer and technology adviser for the KIA.
“If it is around Manwein Village, the area is controlled by government troops. So, it is not possible for the KIA to carry out any recruitment there.”
Kachin State Minister for Shan affairs Khin Pyone Yi said that young people recruited by Kachin rebels are mostly ethnic Shan.
The villages that were notified to provide 15 people each are also Shan villages. The government cannot do anything but civil society groups are helping them out, she added.
