Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, East Asia and the Pacific, Volume XII, Part 2

690B.9321/1–2854: Telegram

No. 144
The Ambassador in Thailand (Donovan) to the Department of State¹

secret
priority

Bangkok, January 28, 1954—5 p.m.

1554. Part I.

Wang, 28 January, told committee that during first phase about 1,000 men “ran away” to South Burma, linked up with Karens. These desertions due fact personnel are veterans Chinese Expeditionary Forces, World War II (Yunnanese and Overseas Chinese) who desire return provinces, not go far away Taiwan.

Immediate purpose these people avoid Burmese attacks secondary purpose return home province when feasible. Mong Hsat fears many similar desertions from North Burma guerrillas during second phase unless South Burma group evacuated first. Recent informal contact South group and Mong Hsat show former now desire evacuate. Estimated strength 1,500 troop and dependents Wang proposes go Mae Sod (16°41’ north–98°33’ east) 30 January contact South group, make firm agreement evacuate. Wang states this evacuation will facilitate evacuation North groups.

Part II.

Wang asked committee arrange transport his group of four Mae Sod and return; requested money to begin evacuation. Committee requested Thailand arrange air transportation, now preparing plane evacuation via Mae Sod.

Part III.

Committee requests and Embassy concurs this matter not be discussed with Burmese pending Wang return and firm plans made.

Part IV.

Comment: If successful, this evacuation South Burma should help relieve Burma complaints Karen-KMT collaboration.

Donovan

1. Repeated to Taipei and Rangoon.