In a surprise raid on Sunday, police in northern Shan state seized over 60 kilograms of opium from an anti-terrorist group in Pansae village, Namkhan Township.

The Namkhan police (Narcotic Branch) seized about 60 packets, estimated to contain over a kilogram of opium each. At least three people were arrested during the raid. It was a surprise check of members of the anti-terrorist group, who were heading towards the 105th mile gate on the Sino-Burma border.

Following the seizure, a source close to the local authorities said tension mounted between the Pansae anti-insurgent group and local authorities. In a bid to destroy the evidence, the group torched the vehicle in which the police were storing the seized opium.

The Pansae militia then sought the intervention of the Burmese Army in an attempt to frighten the police and close the case, the source told Mizzima.

On Monday morning an army battalion on patrol led by a commander from Muse-Namkhan arrived at the spot and, in a bid to frighten the police, surrounded the entire area, said a local resident.

“So far there have been no shootings. But we don’t know what may happen,” said the local.

The unanticipated check by Namkhan police may be related to a suspicion that the anti-insurgent group is connected with an ongoing murder and robbery case, according to local residents.

Local authorities are preparing to file a case against the Pansae anti-terrorist group in connection with a murder and robbery case in Muse town, according to a source close to authorities.

While the police arrested a few members of the militia, local residents said the militia’s leader, known as Kyaw Myint, was not detained.

The Pansae anti-insurgent group was formed, given arms and bestowed with special powers by local junta authorities.