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attack on mae la/beklow refugee cam



forwarded from another source:

BRIEF UPDATE FROM SOURCES INSIDE 
MAELA/BEKLOW REFUGEE CAMP

15/3/98		1700

8 AM:
The SPDC/DKBA statrted shelling the area around the refugee camp from east
of the camp (near the river/border).  The shells fell on Thai soil in the
surrounding area.  105 mm mortars were used.

12.30 PM:
Seven rounds of 105 mm mortars were fired in the area of the camp, five
shells landed in the refugee camp itself.  So far it is known that one man
was injured in the leg due to the shelling.  Other casualties have not yet
been confirmed.

A message intercepted between the SPDC army and SPDC/DKBA commanders in the
field stated: 
 " Defence Land Forces Burma Command Directive.  Must cross into Thailand
for destruction of refugee camps.  Must eliminate all obstacles on the way,
personal or material" (direct translation)

Cars are still able to travel the road between Mae Sot and Mae Sariang,
although there are many checkpoints.

There are apparently still 200-300 DKBA/SPDC troops between the refugee
camp and the river/border.  This area is mountainous and jungle.

Some refugees have moved across the road to the east side to flee danger.