Continued intense fighting in Myanmar’s Kayin State has driven another wave of desperate civilians across the border into Thailand. According to the Rachamanu Task Force, an estimated 233 displaced people crossed the Moei River on Saturday (April 19) seeking refuge from escalating violence.
The latest exodus was sparked around noon when combined resistance forces from the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) Brigade 7 and Karen National Defence Organization (KNDO) Battalion 5, operating under the Karen National Union (KNU), launched a strategic drone bombing raid against Myanmar junta troops from Infantry Battalion 24, stationed at the Mophasu operations base in Myawaddy Township—a location just 2 kilometres from the Thai border near Ban Huai Pla Kong, Mae Ramat District.
The drone strike, targeting military installations near the border, forced hundreds of fear-stricken civilians to abandon their homes amidst the chaos. Thai authorities quickly intervened, guiding the newly arrived refugees to a temporary safe zone established at Huai Pla Kong Monastery.
In response to the growing instability, Colonel Nattakorn Rueantip, Commander of the Rachamanu Task Force, deployed units from the 35th Ranger Special Task Force (Narathiwat Force) along with local police and administrative officials to secure the area. These forces are providing vital humanitarian aid, food, and shelter while maintaining strict border security.
“Additional personnel and support weaponry have been positioned to reinforce our response plan,” Colonel Nattakorn confirmed, emphasizing the Thai government’s commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty and protecting border communities from potential spillovers.
The situation underscores the volatile security landscape in Myanmar and highlights the ongoing humanitarian fallout impacting neighboring Thailand, which continues to shoulder the burden of hosting displaced populations amid protracted conflict.
Officials warn the influx may continue if fighting escalates further, straining local resources and demanding sustained regional coordination for effective crisis management.
BOB Post
