KANCHANABURI: Soldiers have increased security checks along the border in Sangkhla Buri district amid fresh fighting between government troops and ethnic forces in Myanmar.
Maj Gen Banyong Thongnuam, commander of the Surasee Force, said on Thursday that security had been tightened around Three Pagodas Pass and other spots in the district, with increased border patrols against incursions.
He said there was fighting near the border between Myanmar government troops and the Karen National Liberation Army.
Gunfire was heard before dawn in Payathonzu town, about 10 kilometres from the checkpoint, and it lasted well into the morning.
Three Pagodas Pass remained open but border crossers were subject to thorough checks by authorities. All unmanned crossings in the district were blocked.
Security officials in Kanchanaburi expected the Myanmar government would reinforce its troops and the fighting could intensify. They said the Myanmar government was trying to retake a base captured by Karen fighters.
