TAK — Thai troops have tightened security along the Myanmar border in Mae Sot district after intense clashes between Myanmar military forces and resistance fighters sent stray bullets and explosive fragments into Thai territory, forcing villagers to take shelter.
A 14-year-old boy reportedly escaped unharmed after a stray bullet pierced the roof of his home and landed on his chest while he was sheltering inside. A woman was also injured by shrapnel from an explosion at her house.
At 14:00 on 29 October 2026, fighting continued between Myanmar military forces and resistance fighters in Min Let Pan village in Myawaddy township, Karen State, directly opposite Huai Maha Wong village in Mae Sot district, Tak province.
The two sides exchanged heavy weapons fire throughout the day, while drones were also reportedly used to drop bombs. The fighting took place near the Moei River, which marks part of the Thai-Myanmar border.
Explosions and stray rounds repeatedly crossed into Thai territory, prompting community leaders to issue urgent warnings over village loudspeakers, telling residents to take cover in bunkers or move to designated safe areas.
A 55-year-old woman, identified as Lam Yong Nala, was injured by shrapnel after an explosive round struck inside her home. She was taken to Mae Sot Hospital and was later reported to be in a safe condition.
In a separate incident, a bullet of unknown origin reportedly pierced the roof of a house and landed on the chest of 14-year-old Angkarat Suphap while he was sheltering inside. The boy escaped without any apparent injury, in what local reports described as a remarkable stroke of luck.
Following the cross-border incidents, troops from the Ratchamanu Task Force fired two smoke rounds as warning shots towards the Myanmar side. The unit said it was prepared to respond with live ammunition under its rules of engagement if further rounds crossed into Thailand.
Clashes between Myanmar military forces and resistance fighters were continuing, with further fighting expected during the night. Reports indicated that Myanmar military commanders had ordered troops to retake the contested area, which resistance forces had held for an extended period.
Min Let Pan is located along a strategically important route used to transport supplies for both sides and lies close to the border with Mae Sot.
Thai forces have deployed heavy weapons and reinforced troops along the border to protect local residents. The Ratchamanu Task Force is working with Mae Sot district authorities, Border Patrol Police Company 346 and village protection volunteers to maintain security and safeguard Thai territory around the clock.
