12,000 refugees from Myanmar depart Tak

Around 12,000 Myanmar refugees returned to their homeland in Myawaddy this week after seeking temporary refuge on Thai territory over the past week, according to the Royal Thai Army (RTA).

Maj. Gen. Sirichan Ngathong, the RTA deputy spokesperson, confirmed yesterday that the last 89 Myanmar refugees who were sheltering in tambon Mae Kasa of Mae Sot district departed on Wednesday.

The 12,479 Myanmar refugees had been accommodated across 15 designated locations in Mae Sot and Mae Ramat districts since April 5.

Members of the Naresuan task force continue to maintain security along the border in both districts, added Maj Gen Sirichan.

The influx of refugees occurred when Karen rebels attempted to seize control of the Ban Tee Ko Tor area…