The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) announced that it has arrested more than 10 members of the Military Affairs Security (MAS) and junta informants who were allegedly sent to gather intelligence in Kyaukme and Hsipaw townships, northern Shan State.
MAS is the junta’s military intelligence arm.
The TNLA said the arrests were made during random inspections by the Ta’ang Township Police and related departments. Those detained were accused of collecting information on TNLA checkpoints, troop strength, weapons, and military bases in areas under the control of the Palaung State Liberation Front (PSLF), the TNLA’s political wing.
According to the statement, the junta used such intelligence to conduct airstrikes and assess the effectiveness of its attacks. The informants were also tasked with monitoring road conditions and supply routes that could aid the military in penetrating TNLA-held areas.
The TNLA said the alleged spies used disguises posing as wealthy residents, beggars or tourists and entered towns by foot, motorbikes, buses, or cars. They exchanged information through signals and meetings at tea shops, betel stalls, and public toilets before sending updates via Viber, Facebook, WeChat, and Telegram.
The group said those arrested are being safely detained and, if found guilty, will face trial under Ta’ang State law.
