14-4-2024 (YANGON) A tense standoff is unfolding along the Thai-Myanmar border as approximately 100 soldiers loyal to Myanmar’s military junta are reportedly awaiting reinforcements in a bid to recapture the strategic trade hub of Myawaddy, recently seized by ethnic armed groups. The town’s fall to the Karen National Union (KNU) and People’s Defence Force (PDF) has dealt a significant blow to the junta’s control over lucrative cross-border trade routes.
According to sources along the border, the embattled junta soldiers retreated towards the Second Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge in the aftermath of Myawaddy’s capture, with many seeking refuge as opposition forces intensified their bombardment of the area. This precarious situation has prompted Thai authorities to reinforce the area under the bridge, erecting a buffer zone to prevent the conflict from spilling over into Thai territory.
A resident of Myawaddy, speaking under the condition of anonymity, revealed that the roughly 100 soldiers have refused to surrender to the rebel forces, defiantly adhering to the junta’s instructions as they await backup from other units to bolster their positions and aid in the effort to retake the key border trade hub.
The ongoing clashes between Myanmar government troops and resistance groups in Kawkareik and the outskirts of Myawaddy have disrupted vital trade routes, forcing logistic trucks to navigate alternative paths to reach Myawaddy from the Thai town of Mae Sot, adding up to seven hours to their travel time. With rebel forces now controlling several key border areas, many traders have opted to transport their goods via ships from Yangon port, which remains under the junta’s control.
The Myanmar military government, which seized power in a coup in Nay Pyi Taw, is facing mounting pressure from numerous armed resistance groups, including the formidable KNU, which boasts 14 affiliated groups – seven operating in the north of Myawaddy and seven active in the south of the region.
In an effort to ensure the safety of residents and merchants, Thai authorities are coordinating with the groups to designate safe zones along key trade routes, underscoring the delicate balancing act being played out in this volatile border region.
