Following the integration of Shan State (South)-based resistance forces into the Karenni National Defense Force (KNDF) Tactical Operations Command (TOC)-9, their primary focus will be military operations in the southern Shan State, according to Ko Phoe Khwa, the commander of KNDF TOC-9.
The southern Shan-based forces, including the Southern Shan State Local Revolution Force (SSLRU), Shan South Local Defense Force Units 1005 and 1008, and the Southern Defense Force (SODF), have united under the name Shan South National Defense Force (SSNDF) and officially joined TOC-9 of the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF).
Ko Phoe Khwa said: “Since the southern Shan areas are essential for the southern Shan forces, it is necessary to advance militarily into that region. Conducting military operations in southern Shan State could have a significant impact on the Karenni’s broader territorial military strategy.”
Ko Phoe Khwa said that although there are currently no major clashes with the military council in the southern Shan State, TOC- 9 is cooperating military operations in Karenni State.”
The statement released on 19 April also confirmed that the SSNDF, which has joined the operation, will continue to operate under the military command of the KNDF.
As we have announced that we will operate under the KNDF’s Chain of Command (COC), we will continue to work in collaboration with the KNDF,” Ko Phoe Khwa added.
The military training course for the reorganized SSNDF/KNDF TOC-9 was launched on 11 February, with the graduation ceremony held on 17 April.
Ko Phoe Khwar said that the collaboration also aims to establish base areas within southern Shan State. As part of future plans, continued efforts toward further unification will be pursued.
Sent by Kantarawaddy Times