Hundreds of locals were forced to flee to the Thai side after clashes broke out between a pro-junta militia and local defense forces in Seikhpu village in Kawthaung Township in Tanintharyi Region, according to officials from the Tanintharyi People’s Defense Forces.
The exchange of fire between the two sides occurred after PDF members shot and killed militia leader U Kyaw Win and his deputy Myint Aung at their home in Seikhpu village on the evening of 16 April.
The local PDF said in a statement that two pro-junta militia leaders were killed in the clash and two AK 47 rifles, 119 AK bullets, a pistol, four bulletproof vests, two uniforms, a revolver gas pistol, five ammunition boxes, and knives were seized.
The clashes displaced hundreds of residents of Seikhpu village to the Thai side, although the exact number could not be confirmed, the PDF official said.
“These were things committed by members of the Pyu Saw Htee and junta soldiers together in this area. There have been deaths. That’s why they killed them, as far as we know. We can’t yet confirm the number of people who have fled to the Thai side. The Thai authorities will only house them temporarily. At the moment, there is no fighting here. Usually, they return home when the situation calms down. This has happened before near the border,” he said.
According to reports, residents of Seikhpu village fled by boat to the Thai side when the clashes occurred, and they did not return to the village until 17 April.
Last March, more than 500 people were also forced to flee to safety on the Thai side after fighting broke out in Waingden village.
Sent by Than Lwin Times.