Security Info - International SOS Security Information

Situation Update Thailand

Thailand 05/01/2001

Three Killed In Border Clash

According to Thai officials, at least three Thais were killed and a dozen others, including two soldiers, were injured early this morning after members of a Yangon-allied militia opened fire on a border army base. Apparently, approximately 30 troops believed to be members of the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA), crossed the border from Myanmar and fired on a Thai army base near the Moei River. Thai forces returned fire and more have been sent to reinforce the border area. About 800 villagers were being evacuated from the border to a safe area some eight kilometers (five miles) inside Thailand to avoid further fighting. Thai forces returned fire.

Thai army officials believe that the attack on the base occured for retaliation for drug seizures made by the Thai army. They believe that the militia is running drug factories. Relations between the two countries are strained as each accuses the other of supporting militia groups on the border.

SOS Comment

The Thai authorities have launched permanent anti-narcotics operations against illicit drugs entering from Myanmar. This policy has led to numerous clashes between the security forces and smugglers.

SOS members are strongly advised to avoid the border area with Myanmar. Fighting between government troops and rebel guerrilla groups periodically spills over the border with Myanmar, especially during the dry season (October to mid-May). Cross-border raids by irregular forces that support Myanmar's military government against ethnic guerrilla bases or refugee camps are relatively common.