“Red Wa” Soldiers Defending Against Thai Troops

Thai PBS Verify found that a TikTok user named "mainaingthanlwin3" posted a video clip showing Ta'ang soldiers digging defensive trenches. However, some Thai TikTok users, who were unaware of the context, mistakenly believed that Red Wa soldiers were hastily digging defenses against Thai troops. Initially, many viewers were misled and left numerous comments, with the video accumulating over 100,000 views. 

Source: TikTok 

Verification Process 

Upon verification, the TikTok user "mainaingthanlwin3", who has over 1,397 followers and 4,294 likes, posted a clip of an armed group rapidly digging a defensive trench on a ridge. The video caption was in Burmese. Using Google Lens to translate the text in the video, it was found that the caption read: "Father Min Aung Hlaing needs the work done 5-12-2024"

Upon further examination of the TikTok user’s profile, a military emblem showing the English abbreviation "TNLA" was found on their uniform. TNLA Standing for Ta'ang National Liberation Army, an ethnic armed group in Myanmar Phatporn Sripirote that operates under of the Palaung State Liberation Front (PSLF) and is not affiliated with the United Wa State Army (UWSA), also known as Red Wa forces. 

Meanwhile, the uniforms of the TNLA also feature distinct emblems that differentiate them from those of the United Wa State Army (UWSA). 

(Right image sourced from Facebook: United Wa State Army - UWSA) 

What Are the Impacts of This Misinformation? 

The TikTok post in question has generated significant engagement, especially among Thai users. It has received over 506 comments and accumulated more than 107,000 views. However, many viewers mistakenly believed that the video depicted Red Wa soldiers fortifying their defenses, leading to a misunderstanding among those unaware of the actual situation. This misinformation has further intensified conflicts and misconceptions regarding the issue. 

How Does This Misunderstanding Affect Society? 

Surapong Kongchantuk, Director of the Karen Studies and Development Center, shared his perspective on the issue, explaining that the group featured in the video is not involved in the conflict and is not affiliated with the Red Wa soldiers, as many people have mistakenly assumed. He emphasized that misunderstandings like this should be taken seriously in Thai society, especially as fake news continues to spread without effective countermeasures. There is a lack of clarification from relevant organizations, and in many cases, media unknowingly amplify fake news without verifying its authenticity. This results in misinformation spreading rapidly, leading the public to consume false narratives. 

In the case of the video clip, the group of people featured are Ta'ang (Palaung) soldiers engaged in ongoing combat in Myanmar's interior regions. They are not affiliated with the Red Wa group. The Ta'ang armed forces are an ethnic group that has long been in conflict with the Myanmar military over territorial control. In recent times, the fighting has intensified. it is common for soldiers to construct defensive fortifications to protect themselves from the dangers in the area. 

The Ta'ang ethnic group has a significant population in Thailand, particularly in the northern region. Over the years, Ta'ang communities in Thailand have held annual cultural events within the country. As for Ta'ang women, they are known as one of the most colorful dressed ethnic groups in Thailand.

The impact of misunderstandings can manifest in several ways, including: 

1. Creating Hatred – This can lead to a reluctance to coexist with people of different ethnic backgrounds. 
2. Potential for Violence – Hatred can escalate into actions that seek to exclude or reject those from different ethnic groups. This may result in hostile language or even violent actions, ultimately making it difficult for people to live together peacefully in society. 

However, as members of Thai society, it is essential to consider how we can coexist peacefully with those who share our community and our world, recognizing the value of everyone. 

Misunderstandings Can Impact Security 

Associate Professor Dr. Phithaya Suwakhun, an expert on Mekong regional international relations from Thammasat University, commented on the issue, stating that this news is one of the many misunderstandings that have been spread online over the past two weeks, particularly from Myanmar. It seems the group that benefits the most from this misinformation is the Red Wa ethnic group, as it strengthens their image and bargaining power in negotiations with Myanmar’s military government. Meanwhile, the Thai military has suffered the most negative consequences, particularly regarding trust and border security concerns. 

Diplomatic and Security Implications of the Misunderstanding

"This issue concerns the relationship between the Thai government and Myanmar’s military government, which Thailand should prioritize over the Red Wa ethnic group. However, it is a difficult and complex matter, as each ethnic group in Myanmar has its own armed forces, making their situation different from other countries. As a result, the relationships between states and between states and ethnic groups are interwoven. This is ultimately a border-related issue with security implications. The Thai military should promptly issue an official statement to clarify the situation." 

Public Perception and Border Relations 

Dr. Phithaya noted that public perception of the Red Wa group is likely to deteriorate. This also affects the relationship between Thailand’s border regions and the areas controlled by ethnic groups. Historically, communities along the border have coexisted through mutual reliance. The government's approach to addressing this issue will determine whether the situation leads to positive diplomatic outcomes. However, if left unaddressed and misinterpreted as an isolated incident, it could lead to further problems in the future. 

Related News: Investigation Confirms: Fake TikTok Post Claims, "Red Wa" Troops Mobilizing for Full-Scale War!
Original Source: https://www.thaipbs.or.th/now/content/1967