The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) has warned that it will respond if the military junta continues to violate the Hengqin ceasefire agreement. TNLA General Secretary Major Tar Pone Kyaw made the statement on June 24, highlighting the need for constant military vigilance despite the ceasefire agreement.
Although the Hengqin ceasefire agreement calls for a cessation of hostilities, Major Tar Pone Kyaw emphasized the necessity of being prepared for military action. He stated that the TNLA would defend its people if subjected to airstrikes or artillery attacks by the military junta.
“The Hengqin agreement, brokered by China, is supposed to prevent severe military conflicts. However, we must remain vigilant because the military junta has been intensifying its operations nationwide. We cannot dismiss the possibility of airstrikes and heavy artillery attacks in our region, which could harm our people. Therefore, we must be prepared to protect our civilians and resist any aggression,” he said.
On June 9, the military junta attacked a TNLA camp in Moe Mate Township three times with artillery and once with a 500-pound bomb dropped from an aircraft, injuring three TNLA soldiers. Similarly, on June 20, two jet fighters bombed Hwe Htwet village in Moe Mate Township, resulting in the deaths of three TNLA soldiers.
Major Tar Pone Kyaw expressed doubts about the military junta’s commitment to the Hengqin ceasefire agreement, suggesting that the junta might exploit the situation for its strategic advantage.
“We have concerns about whether the SAC will genuinely adhere to the Hengqin agreement they signed. We are skeptical. Therefore, we must maintain our revolutionary and military alertness. The situation could escalate at any moment, and we have a duty to protect our people from increased oppression and defend against any military aggression,” he added.
In the past, the TNLA, as part of the Brotherhood Alliance, launched the 1027 Military Operation on October 27, 2023, successfully capturing several towns in northern Shan State, including Namhkam, Mantong, Namtu, Kutkai, and Mong Ngaw. Following this, the Hengqin ceasefire agreement was reached through Chinese mediation, leading to a temporary cessation of hostilities in northern Shan State. However, recent reports indicate that the military junta frequently violates the ceasefire with artillery and aerial attacks.
