Chiang Rai, May 5, 2025 — Tensions have escalated dramatically along the Lao-Thai border after unidentified armed groups launched a coordinated assault on Lao military positions in Bokeo Province, opposite Wiang Kaen District, Chiang Rai. At least five Lao soldiers have been confirmed dead, with several more wounded or trapped as fighting enters its third day.
The assault began on the evening of May 3, when armed fighters stormed and seized three out of four Lao military outposts in Phu Pha Mon and Ban Chiang Tong, Pak Tha District. The assailants, believed to be heavily armed and tactically trained, have entrenched themselves by digging extensive tunnel systems to block Lao reinforcements.
Attempts by the Lao military to evacuate the wounded have been met with gunfire. One senior officer was reportedly ambushed and killed while attempting to access the conflict zone. Disturbingly, a 7-year-old girl is reportedly trapped inside one of the besieged bases, raising grave concerns for civilian safety.
Local sources indicate that entire communities beyond Pak Tha—including villages like Huay Sanan, Lam Paen, and Hat Sa—have been cut off from supply lines. “Civilians can’t leave, and essential goods can’t get in. Fear is spreading,” said a border security official.
The motive behind the attack is believed to be linked to a recent drug enforcement operation that resulted in the seizure of over 20 million methamphetamine pills in Chiang Tong. Observers suggest this could be a violent retaliation by transnational drug syndicates with ties to armed ethnic militias. Intelligence reports point to the involvement of Hmong fighters with suspected international backing.
In response, Thai paramilitary unit Task Force 3104 has been deployed along the border. In Rom Fa Phu Pha Mon village, stray 7.62mm bullets have reportedly penetrated rooftops, prompting local officials to increase surveillance and establish round-the-clock security patrols along high-risk areas, including Pha Bong and Phu Chi Dao.
“We’ve officially contacted Lao authorities, but they insist this is an internal matter,” said Wiang Kaen District Chief Supoj Langkawira. “We’re closely monitoring the situation.”
Thai naval patrols are also active along the Mekong River to prevent spillover violence.
With continued fighting, disrupted supply routes, and the involvement of organized crime elements, the conflict is rapidly turning into one of the most volatile border flare-ups in years, threatening to destabilize an already fragile region.
This is a translation of original Thai articles https://transbordernews.in.th/home/?p=42403 and https://transbordernews.in.th/home/?p=42411
