Aung Si Taw-Mandalay (AST – MDY), an urban guerrilla force operating in the Mandalay Region, announced April 7 that it would cooperate with the National Unity Government (NUG) Ministry of Defense in order to intensify military operations.
The guerrilla force said it would join forces with the People’s Defense Forces – Mandalay District in conducting military operations.
“This is just a confirmation that all our activities are legitimate and we will continue our presence under the leadership of MOD without any mistake. Our operations will continue as before. There will be no significant changes,” said an official from AST – MDY.
Currently, AST – MDY is officially allied only with PDF – Mandalay District, but had previously conducted joint operations with several other allies, he said.
The guerrilla spokesman added that AST-MDY has joined forces with the battalions under MOD because they have to be accountable in conducting operations.
“As urban guerrillas, we have to be accountable for every operation we carry out. Right now, the offensives against the military regime have intensified. Therefore, we believe it is the right time to unite under the leadership of MOD in the fight against the military council. We ask the public to support us in this as much as possible.”
The AST- MDY has often conducted military operations in Mandalay Region and has established itself as a trusted guerrilla force for the people. Support groups for the revolution have said that their cooperation with the MOD will be very helpful militarily.
On 4 April, AST – MDY shot eight times at junta-appointed administrator U Soe Min Han of Ward (g) in Pyigyidagun Township in front of London Hospital, which he owned, and died on the spot.
Sent by NMG.