The Thai army tightened security after fighting erupted along Thailand's border with Myanmar last weekend.

Myanmar's ruling military junta clashed with rebels in Kawthaung town near Thailand's Ranong province on February 21.

Residents said the skirmishes have been continuing for three to four consecutive days.

Colonel Phumiphat Boonruangkao, commander of the 25th Infantry Regiment Task Force - Thepsatri Force, said the Burmese military had been battling the Karen guerillas near the area.

He said: "We will intensify the security in Ranong by patrolling, setting up checkpoints, blocking illegal paths, and informing people to not enter the border illegally. If the situation worsens, we can provide humanitarian assistance for Burmese people, but Thailand is not accepting refugees yet".

He added that 24-hour patrol will be stationed at the border for increased security.

Fighting between the armed militias and the Burmese military has intensified amid the political turmoil in Myanmar caused by the ousting of former leader Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021.

Around the country, more than 1,300 civilians are said to have been killed during military crackdowns on protests.

The Thai army tightened security after fighting erupted along Thailand's border with Myanmar last weekend.

Myanmar's ruling military junta clashed with rebels in Kawthaung town near Thailand's Ranong province on February 21.

Residents said the skirmishes have been continuing for three to four consecutive days.

Colonel Phumiphat Boonruangkao, commander of the 25th Infantry Regiment Task Force - Thepsatri Force, said the Burmese military had been battling the Karen guerillas near the area.

He said: 'We will intensify the security in Ranong by patrolling, setting up checkpoints, blocking illegal paths, and informing people to not enter the border illegally.

'If the situation worsens, we can provide humanitarian assistance for Burmese people, but Thailand is not accepting refugees yet.'

He added that 24-hour patrol will be stationed at the border for increased security.

Fighting between the armed militias and the Burmese military has intensified amid the political turmoil in Myanmar caused by the ousting of former leader Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021.

Around the country, more than 1,300 civilians are said to have been killed during military crackdowns on protests.