Deputy Spokesperson: Government tightens control along Thai–Myanmar border following incidents of stray munitions landing on Thai soil

Today (2 November 2026), Ms. Lalida Periwatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, stated that the government under the leadership of Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, places the highest priority on the safety and property of citizens living along the Thai–Myanmar border. Security agencies in the area have intensified controls over border trade channels in Mae Sot and Phop Phra districts, Tak Province, following reports that munitions from the conflict in Myanmar have landed on the Thai side, causing damage to local homes.

Ms. Lalida added that the Naresuan Task Force and local security authorities have requested that the Mae Sot Customs House suspend the facilitation of imports and exports through any channels other than those officially authorized specifically in the area south of the First Thai–Myanmar Friendship Bridge in Mae Sot District. This includes the Phop Phra District of Tak Province, for a period of 7 days from October 30 to November 5, 2026 or until the situation improves. The measure is intended to manage the border situation, prevent the transport of items that could support the combat operations of various factions within Myanmar, and mitigate safety risks to the local population.

Ms. Lalida clarified that these measures involve suspending specific border crossings and areas as outlined in the announcement; they do not constitute a total closure of the border or a suspension of all trade between Thailand and Myanmar. The import and export of goods through authorized channels must still comply with the laws, regulations, and conditions established by the relevant authorities. Consequently, business operators are advised to verify the status of specific transport routes and the requirements for different types of goods with the Mae Sot Customs House before proceeding.

Ms. Lalida added that the government has instructed the Governor of Tak Province and security officials to monitor the situation closely and provide support to those affected by the conflict. There have been reports of damage to residential homes, and one injured individual has been admitted to Mae Sot Hospital for treatment. Local authorities have already been deployed to assess the situation and provide assistance to the public. Individuals and business operators who need to travel or transport goods through the border area are urged to stay updated on announcements from Tak Province, the Naresuan Task Force, and the Mae Sot Customs House. As these measures are in effect until November 5, 2026 or until the situation stabilizes it is essential to verify the status of any crossing point before attempting to travel or transport goods. It should not be assumed that all channels will automatically resume operations once the specified period ends.

“The government maintains that the safety of the public along the border is of the utmost importance. These measures to regulate trade channels are intended to mitigate the impact of the ongoing conflict and ensure order in the area; they apply only to specific designated channels, rather than a total closure of the border. The government will continue to monitor the situation closely, while prioritizing the well-being of the public and striving to minimize any adverse effects on cross-border trade. We also urge the public to rely on information provided by official authorities to avoid any misunderstandings,” Ms. Lalida said.