China's military has increased its army and police patrols along the western border with Myanmar due to escalating conflict between Myanmar's military regime and armed opposition groups.

The enhanced patrols, which include air surveillance, will target towns such as Ruili, Zhenkang, and other key border areas, as announced by the military on Monday. Ruili, located in China's southwestern Yunnan province, serves as a major transit point for people and goods between China and Myanmar. Recent reports have indicated that artillery shells from across the border have injured residents and damaged properties in this region.

The conflict in Myanmar's Shan State has intensified since late last year, when ethnic armed groups united to challenge the military regime. A ceasefire brokered by Beijing in January collapsed by late June, leading to renewed and expanded offensives by these armed groups. They have claimed control over several Myanmar military posts and key towns.

In response, Myanmar's military has carried out bombing raids, drone strikes, and imposed restrictions on internet and mobile phone networks. The violence has displaced thousands of people.

The Southern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army has also conducted exercises to assess the military's readiness to rapidly mobilize, block, and control the border areas, while ensuring stability.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has affirmed China's ongoing commitment to restoring peace and stability in Myanmar. Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military coup that ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021.

BOB Post