Mae Sam Laep:Mae Hong Son Officials are urgently assessing the impact after Myanmar dropped a 500-pound bomb on a Karen base, with the blast's shockwave reaching Mae Sam Laep, Mae Hong Son province. The explosion caused significant damage to homes and government buildings on the Thai side of the border.
According to Thai News Agency, the atmosphere at Mae Sam Laep pier and shops along the Salween River has become quiet and deserted, leading to a temporary suspension of boat services. Only a small number of villagers remain, keeping a watchful eye on the situation after Myanmar military aircraft dropped two bombs in the Saw Lae Tha area of Karen State, directly opposite Mae Sam Laep village. The resulting blast pressure and shrapnel caused damage to homes and government buildings in Thailand. Some villagers who had previously evacuated to the Mae Sam Laep Subdistrict Administrative Organization office have since returned home.
Recently, administrative officials and security forces conducted a survey of the damage, reporting that approximately 17 houses experienced broken windows, roofs hit by shrapnel, building cracks, and collapsed ceilings. Damage was also reported to government buildings, including the Mae Sam Laeb Sub-district Health Center, a mosque, a temple, a Christian church, a child development center, and a tourist service center. Villagers handed over five pieces of shrapnel to the military, which were identified as fragments from a large bomb, causing a powerful tremor.
Mr. Pongpipat Mibenjamart, the mayor of Mae Sam Laep Subdistrict, has called for the Thai government to take measures to ensure the safety and security of people along the border. He suggested negotiating with Myanmar to prevent future bombings along the border, allowing communities on both sides to live without fear.
Mr. Suphap Nuchnongkran, the headman of Mae Sam Laep subdistrict, has met with villagers to remind them to remain cautious and monitor the situation closely. He advised avoiding loud music to hear warnings or aircraft sounds. The Mae Sam Laep Subdistrict Administrative Organization has designated Huai Kong Kad School as a safe area for Thai citizens in case of emergency, with three additional locations prepared for evacuees from the neighboring country. Mr. Nuchnongkran also suggested building bomb shelters within the community for quick access to safety. Security forces are preparing a formal protest regarding the incident.