Bkk Post -Myawaddy crossing closed

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Bangkok Post - Sep 10, 1999.
THAI-BURMESE BORDER

Myawaddy crossing closed
Supamart Kasem

Burma yesterday suddenly closedthe border crossing between Myawaddy and Mae
Sot district, saying it was a security precaution.

Thai immigration and customs officials were surprised to see the friendship
bridge, the legitimate crossing between the two towns, blocked in the middle
by several empty oil drums.

An immigration official said authorities were not notified in advance.

He said they were advised later the closure was a precautionary measure by
Rangoon to prevent possible attacks by rebels. It was not known when the
border would reopen.

About 100 Burmese men who claimed to be members of the People's Liberation
Front Mae Sot branch gathered on the Moei river bank in Ban Rim Moei, Mae
Sot, yesterday carrying banners condemning the Burmese junta and demanding
democracy in Burma. Anti-government leaflets and stickers were also
distributed to passers-by.

The protest lasted about an hour before it was dispersed by police, who held
several protesters for questioning.