Myanmar junta troops reportedly flee to Thailand as KNLA attacks intensify at strategic base

Mizzima

Joint forces of the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) have launched sustained attacks on Htee Khee Strategic Camp along the Dawei–Htee Khee road in Dawei Township, Tanintharyi Region, prompting junta soldiers and police officers to reportedly flee across the border into Thailand.

According to Padoh Saw Eh Na, District Secretary of the Karen National Union (KNU) Mergui-Dawei District, the offensive began in the third week of April. The junta has since relied heavily on airstrikes and aerial resupply missions, as ground routes to the camp have been cut off.

More than 30 personnel—including nine police officers—were said to have fled to Thailand during the first week of May. While exact figures have not been independently verified, sources report that the troops escaped in small groups, with some allegedly taking weapons with them.