Minami Kikan

   (Minami Organ)

   Established on February 1, 1941, by the Imperial General Headquarters of the Japanese Army, the Minami Kikan was a clandestine organization designed to promote Japanese war aims in Burma. Named for its head, Colonel Suzuki Keiji (who collected information and contacts in Burma under the name "Minami Masuyo"; minami also means "south" in Japanese), it operated for the most part in Thailand, using a front organization, the "Southeast Asia Industrial Investigation Association," as a cover for its activities. Its headquarters were in Bangkok, and branches were located at Kachanaburi, Ranong, Chiang Mai, and Raheng. The Minami Kikan recruited the Thirty Comrades; arranged their secret departure from Burma; gave them military training at a facility, the "Sanya Peasants' Training Center," on Hainan island, China; and provided arms and logistical support for the Burma Independence Army, which was formally established on December 28, 1941, in Bangkok.

   The Minami Kikan originally included both Japanese army and navy officers, but navy resentment of Colonel Suzuki's often highhanded manner led to their withdrawal from the organization. After Suzuki was transferred from Burma back to Japan in June 1942, the Minami Kikan became inoperative. After the war, members of the Minami Kikan maintained contact with Burmese ruling circles. In 1981, eight of them received decorations, the "Order of Aung San" (Aung San Tagun), from President Ne Win.

   See also Aung San; Japanese Occupation.