The military junta has recently increased ground security operations and conducted aerial surveillance flights in areas around Kawkareik and Kyainseikgyi townships in Karen State, according to local sources.
Following a clash that occurred in the Kawbein area of Kawkareik Township on June 12, military junta troops have reinforced security at their bases and intensified nighttime patrols, a local resident said.
“Since the shooting incident, they have resumed patrols. There had been no regular night patrols in this area for quite some time. They have also warned residents not to travel between both sides of the river or go outside after 8 p.m. Some bridges have been blocked as well,” he said.
Residents also reported that Y-8 and Y-12 aircraft have been conducting surveillance flights during the daytime.
Similarly, local residents in Kyainseikgyi Township said the military junta has been flying two aircraft over villages located in areas controlled by the New Mon State Party (Anti-Military Dictatorship) (NMSP-AD). Aircraft noise has also been heard at night.
“The aircraft are flying at low altitude during surveillance missions. They are not helicopters but appear to be military aircraft. They are circling between mountains and near villages. We also heard aircraft flying on the night of June 13,” a local man said.
Although direct clashes between the military junta and revolutionary joint forces have been relatively limited in the Kyainseikgyi area, local residents said they are concerned about the security situation due to the increased aerial surveillance over areas where revolutionary forces are active.
Revolutionary force members believe the surveillance flights are intended to gather intelligence on the movements of resistance groups, secure strategically important routes, and prepare for possible airstrikes at any time.
Revolutionary organizations have repeatedly urged civilians living in resistance-controlled areas to take precautions and minimize risks from possible air attacks, as the military junta continues to carry out aerial strikes against civilian populations in different parts of the country.
The areas where surveillance aircraft have been flying daily are located in Thaton and Mawlamyine districts, which are under the control of the New Mon State Party (NMSP), a signatory to the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA).
