On 31 October, a military patrol was observed on the Chinese side of the Kyalgaung gate, which serves as a border crossing between China and Myanmar in Muse Town, northern Shan State. This military exercise appeared to be conducted by the Wujing border guard force, known locally in the area.
"The number of forces in the area remains consistent. Typically, military patrols are carried out in response to military and political circumstances. However, it's unusual to see such a substantial deployment for patrolling. China do not use this much force when patrolling. There were six patrolling vehicles,” an official from the Muse Humanitarian Aid Network said.
Than Soe Naing, a political and military analyst, suggests that the heightened military patrolling in China may be a preemptive measure aimed at preparing for a potential influx of displaced people seeking refuge in China. This anticipatory action is in response to the ongoing intense battles occurring in northern Shan State.
"China typically enforces restrictions to prevent those displaced by military conflicts in Myanmar from entering China and seeking asylum. Now, they appear to be reinforcing these barriers," he said.
China does not have a tradition of readily welcoming people displaced by conflicts in Myanmar. They usually accept them only when there is no alternative. However, Than Soe Naing emphasizes that China's acceptance of displaced people may not always align with international procedures and regulations.
During the intense battle in the Chinshwehaw on 27 October, the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) sent some residents to China, according to the statement issued by the MNDAA.
Than Soe Naing explains that normally, residents of Chin Shwe Haw are granted a seven-day stay in China after crossing the border gate. However, it has been observed that the Kokkang administration team permits entry into China only when the residents make monetary payments. This indicates that China does not have an official policy of welcoming displaced people.
As of 1 November, according to Muse residents, everything in Muse Town is operating as usual, with the exception of a few closed shops, which are likely shuttered due to security concerns or other reasons.
As part of Operation 1027, the MNDAA (Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army) has officially confirmed the successful capture of Chinshwehaw town in Laukkaing township and Phaung Sai town in Muse township, which are border towns on the China-Myanmar border. These achievements were made by the Three Northern Alliance Forces since the operation began on 27 October.
On Thursday, China called for a ceasefire in northern Myanmar.
