2021 Myawaddy clashes

The Myawaddy clashes erupted on 1 June 2021, when Myanmar Army and Karen BGF crossed into DKBA-5 territory in retaliation for the latter group capturing three police officers and a firefighter from Waw Lay Township. According to DKBA-5 Major General Kyaw Thet, KNLA, PDF, and BGF defectors participated in the battle. During the fighting, a Myanmar Army artillery shell landed in Thailand, but did not explode.

On 2 November 2021, the Myanmar Army raided an ABSDF liaison office and arrested four staff members on unknown charges.

As clashes erupted into December 2021, the Thai Border Patrol Police strengthened security around Mae Sot after more stray shells landed in Thailand. Thai soldiers also visited refugee camps to provide aid.