Tension to force more refugees into Thailand

Tuesday, 02 February 2010 14:57 Brian McCartan

Bangkok (Mizzima) – With an offensive expected in northern Karen State this dry season and the possibility of renewed hostilities between the junta and ceasefire armies in Shan State, there is a possibility of tens to hundreds of thousands of refugees fleeing to Thailand this year. However, last month’s forced repatriation of Hmong refugees to Laos and current discussions on the repatriation of Karen refugees in Tak province indicate that future refugees may no longer be welcome.

Three reports last week of stepped up operations by the Burmese Army in northern Karen State have prompted fears of an offensive this dry season. Karen National Union (KNU) sources told Mizzima that Burmese Army units are reoccupying camps in eastern Pegu Division that had been abandoned after the 2006-2008 period of intense military operations. Reports by the Karen Human Rights Group and Free Burma Rangers said at least 10 villages and over 2,000 people have been displaced by military patrols. At least three villagers have been killed, they say, and another three captured by Burmese Army columns.

The re-emergence of Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) units in the same area as well as recent aggressive statements by DKBA commanders, a forced recruitment campaign and reports of skirmishes have resulted in many Karen believing that a DKBA-led push into the Papun area is imminent.
Reports by the Karen Human Rights Group and Free Burma Rangers said at least 10 villages and over 2,000 people have been displaced by military patrols. At least three villagers have been killed, they say, and another three captured by Burmese Army columns.

The re-emergence of Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) units in the same area as well as recent aggressive statements by DKBA commanders, a forced recruitment campaign and reports of skirmishes have resulted in many Karen believing that a DKBA-led push into the Papun area is imminent.