Hsu / Muinch (NSS) - Jan 12

The United Wa State Army (UWSA) announced on 10 January that Hopan and Panlong that were previously under control by the government, have been besieged by the UWSA. 

The UWSA announced that the Handover Ceremony for Hopan and Panlong Townships to the UWSA was held on January 10th. Hopan and Panlong, situated within the Wa Self-Administered Division, have reportedly been ceded to the UWSA.

The Handover Ceremony was attended by the Mongmao District Administrator and other relevant personnel, as reported.

In recent days, alliance groups of the MNDAA conducted raids on Myanmar Military security outposts in Hopan Township, and subsequently, the area was transferred to the UWSA by the MNDAA.

These details have led to speculation among observers regarding the UWSA's possible participation in the ongoing operation.

The State Administration Council's stance on the UWSA's control over Hopan and Panlong remains undetermined due to the absence of an official announcement.