Mine warning sign near Light Infantry Battalion (204) on Thaton-Hpa-An road
Mizzima
According to reports from residents and travelers,
THE Myanmar Military Council is intensifying security measures in Hpa-An Town, the capital of Karen State, according to reports from residents and travelers.
This is in response to attacks by the joint revolutionary forces occurring across several townships in Karen State.
Military Council battalions and long-term bases in townships like Hpapun, Kawkareik, and Myawaddy, which are easily accessible to Hpa-An town, Hpa-An Township, are facing attacks by the joint forces of the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and People’s Defense Forces (PDF).
In light of these attacks, the Military Council has bolstered security around Hpa-An Township, including the expansion of checkpoints and the placement of mines along roadsides and intersections near Military Council installations, as reported by local sources.
Presently, the Military Council is constructing bunkers for a new checkpoint at Ten Mile Hill in Myaingkalay village, Hpa-An Township, along the Yangon-Thaton-HpaAn road. Additionally, efforts are underway to expand and reinforce bunkers at various locations, including the Dontami Bridge Gate, Light Infantry Battalion (204), LIB-205 in Myaingkalay village, the Myaingkalay-Hpapun Junction, and the camp of the Thanlwin Bridge in Hpa-An.
A taxi driver in Hpa-An Township said, “The Military Council is constructing bunkers at Ten Miles Hill in Myaingkalay village using cement and sand. The foundation has recently been completed, with a total of six bunkers being built on both sides of the road. High-security towers are also being installed at LIB-205, LIB-204, and the Duyinseik Bridge camp.”
Similarly, according to local sources, the Military Council has reportedly placed landmines along the Thaton-Hpa-An road near the locations of LIB-205 and LIB-204, as well as near the Military Engineer battalion.
A woman from Hpa-An said, “The Thaton-Hpa-An route is now marked with numerous landmine warning signs, positioned on either side of the road. I hadn’t noticed these signs before. They must have planted mines because they fear potential attacks.”
Furthermore, the Military Council and police have increased pedestrian checks and intensified street patrols, both during the day and at night, not only outside but also within the town of Hpa-An.
