Pictures courtesy of Amarin

Gunfire from clashes between Myanmar troops and Karen fighters crossed into Thailand on 16 January 2026, damaging two homes in Tak province and prompting Thai forces to reinforce border positions. The incident occurred opposite Mae Sot district, where heavy fighting sent 12.7 mm rounds into Thai territory, heightening concerns for civilian safety. No injuries were reported, but residents were placed under close security supervision.

The fighting involved Myanmar’s Light Infantry Division 22 and the Karen National Union (KNU) at the Pa Sak Jodong base in Minlapan village, Myawaddy township, Kayin State. The clashes took place across the border from Ban Mai Mae Kon Ken, Village 2, Mahawan subdistrict, Mae Sot district. During the exchange, large-calibre rounds landed in Huai Mahawong village, Village 9, Mahawan subdistrict, damaging two houses.

The affected properties belonged to Mr Larn Boonwong and Ms Intawat Triyarattanathakorn, according to local reports. Thai soldiers from the Naresuan Force moved to secure the area, establishing positions along the border near the fighting. Authorities said troops were deployed to protect residents and monitor the situation closely.

This marked the first cross-border incident 2026, following similar episodes late last year when small-arms and artillery fire entered Thailand. More than 10 homes were damaged by stray fire in those clashes, officials said. In response to earlier incidents, Major General Maitree Chupreecha, commander of the Naresuan Force, ordered the closure of all border crossing points for seven days, which helped calm the situation at the time.

However, the latest exchange suggests renewed instability, with Myanmar forces reportedly advancing their positions. The escalation has led to further small-arms engagements along the frontier, increasing the risk of spillover into Thai communities. Security agencies are maintaining heightened vigilance as fighting continues on the Myanmar side.

Amarin reported that Thai authorities said border units will remain on standby while coordinating with local officials to ensure civilian safety. Residents in affected villages have been advised to remain alert and follow instructions from security personnel. Officials are assessing damage and monitoring developments closely as the situation evolves.

Key Takeaways

• Gunfire from Myanmar crossed into Thailand on 16 January 2026, damaging two homes in Mae Sot district.

• The incident involved clashes between Myanmar’s Light Infantry Division 22 and the Karen National Union near Myawaddy.

• Thai forces reinforced border security, marking the first cross-border spillover incident of 2026.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from Amarin 2026-01-17

 

 

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