Guerrilla fighters from the ethnic Karen group in Myanmar have withdrawn from the town of Myawaddy after a series of events that led to the army’s retreat. The Karen National Union (KNU) and pro-democracy forces captured the base of Infantry Battalion 275, prompting the soldiers to seek refuge near a bridge connecting Myawaddy to Thailand. The KNU forces temporarily withdrew as the Border Guard Force, another armed Karen group, provided assistance to the army soldiers and helped them establish themselves near the bridge.
The conflict in Myanmar began after the military coup in February 2021, leading to widespread protests and resistance against the army’s rule. Despite the army’s advantage in arms and manpower, ethnic rebel groups have made significant gains in various parts of the country, putting pressure on the military government. The KNU’s maneuvering in Myawaddy is part of the larger nationwide conflict between resistance forces and the military, with both sides vying for control of territory and power.
The soldiers near the bridge were given protection by the Border Guard Force, which had previously been affiliated with the military but declared its independence as the Karen National Army. This move further complicates the dynamics of the conflict in Myanmar, with different armed groups aligning themselves with various factions. The Border Guard Force’s role in providing security measures in Myawaddy and assisting the army soldiers highlights the complexity of the situation on the ground.
After a small attack by the Karen guerrillas against the soldiers near the bridge, the military government responded with airstrikes, leading to the displacement of thousands of residents who sought shelter in Thailand. The ongoing conflict has resulted in civilian casualties and displacement, with the situation remaining volatile and unpredictable. The KNU is preparing for a potential counterattack by the military government and is keeping its forces mobile to defend against any threats.
The Karen organizations in Myawaddy are working together to navigate the challenges posed by the conflict, with the Border Guard Force playing a significant role in supporting the army soldiers and maintaining security in the town. The withdrawal of the guerrilla fighters and the involvement of various armed groups reflect the complex and fluid nature of the conflict in Myanmar. The ongoing clashes and power struggles between different factions continue to impact the lives of civilians and further destabilize the country’s political landscape.
