SHAN STATE – The Karenni Coalition forces captured the junta camp near Shwetagu Village in Hsihseng Township, southern Shan State and it is said that around ten junta subordinate PNO (Pa’O National Organisation) forces including child soldiers were captured with weapons.
The Karenni Coalition captures the junta Shwetagu camp that was stationed by around 50 junta and PNO forces on January 9 morning.
“We captured around ten. There were chips soldiers as well as PNO forces. We also seized over 30 weapons,” said a soldier from the Karenni Coalition.
“Tagged alongside the satisfying victories are sad images. By the way the armed POWs include both the (junta forces) and 13, 14 year old children. Forced conscription is not a joke. Escape if you can, if not, come join us. There aren’t many options these days,” Medical Officer Chillux May from Demoso Township PDF posted on their social media.
It is also said that the Karenni Coalition suffered some losses during the battle.
“The use of child soldiers is heavily banned in the world. It is also defined as the worst use of children by the ILO. 13, 14, 15 are very sensitive ages. Forcing them (to go to war) away from their parents in a dangerous location is the worst child labour or the most extreme human rights violation,” Mr. Banyar, the secretary of Karenni State Interim Administration Council, commented regarding the junta council’s use of child soldiers.
The Karenni Coalition has yet to issue any statement regarding the battle.
