Cross-Border Air Strike Damages Mae Sam Laep Homes and Public Facilities

Key summary

Thai officials inspected Mae Sam Laep in Mae Hong Son province on November 1, 2026, following an air strike by the Myanmar military on October 31. Blast waves and bomb fragments from the attack, which targeted a Karen National Union (KNU) position across the Salween River in Sop Moei district, damaged approximately 17 homes and public buildings. Inspectors found shattered windows, roofs pierced by fragments, cracked structures, and collapsed ceilings. Affected public facilities included the Mae Sam Laep subdistrict health centre, a child development centre, the local administrative organisation's tourist service centre, a mosque, a Buddhist temple, and a Christian church. In response to the damage and fears of further attacks, shops along the Salween River were closed and boat services at Mae Sam Laep were temporarily suspended. Many residents, particularly families with children and older people, evacuated to spend the night with relatives farther inland. The Mae Sam Laep Subdistrict Administrative Organisation prepared Ban Huai Kong Kat School as an emergency refuge, while security authorities designated three separate reception sites for people fleeing Myanmar. Pongpipat Meebenjamart, president of the subdistrict administrative organisation, urged the Thai government to negotiate with Myanmar to prevent military operations near the border from harming residents and damaging facilities. He proposed prohibiting bombing along the border and establishing joint safeguards. The KNU stated that the Myanmar Air Force operation aimed to cut supply routes and cross-border trade serving its Brigade 5. A KNU public relations official noted that the Myanmar army had sent a protest letter on August 31, 2026, via the Myanmar-Thai Border Committee in Myawaddy, warning Thai traders against dealing with the KNU or using the Thaw Le Hta crossing, which was threatened by air strikes. Residents were advised to remain alert and avoid playing loud music to hear warnings or approaching aircraft.