Burma beefs up border troops

bangkokpost.net — The Burmese government has reinforced its troops along the border with Thailand to beef up security in the run-up to the 20th anniversary of Burma's pro-democracy uprising, said a border source. The troop build-up is said to have begun four days ago in the border areas opposite the northern provinces of Tak, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son, the source said. It is estimated that more than 10 battalions have been despatched to the areas. In the Burmese border town of Tachilek, opposite Chiang Rai's Mae Sai district, troops have also been deployed at key public establishments. It is also reported that Burmese troops and artillery have been sent to a disputed border area covering 32 square metres on Doi Lang mountain, opposite Chiang Mai's Mae Ai district. The security boost has been prompted by a report that violence might erupt on the Thai-Burmese border to mark the 8/8/88 pro-democracy uprising, said the source. The prospect of violence has reportedly been heightened by US President George W. Bush's visit to Thailand. "The US president plans to address the problems in Burma, so this might irritate the Burmese authorities," said the source. It is reported that Burmese activists will rally in front of the Burmese embassy tomorrow to demand the Burmese government release political prisoners arrested over the past 20 years. Meanwhile, Chaowalit Sirikij, commander of the Pha Muang Task Force, yesterday said Thai authorities are unaware of the rumour about a possible outbreak of violence at the Thai-Burmese border. He added the military build-up along the border is Burma's internal affair. Maj-Gen Chaowalit said the Thai-Burmese Regional Border Committee (RBC) is scheduled to meet in Chiang Rai province today and tomorrow. A security source said Burma is expected to make a protest over the disputed border area during the RBC meeting. Two months ago, Burmese soldiers arrested two Thai villagers for trespassing over the border. The villagers were later released after negotiations, said the source.

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