Ten local guerilla leaders issued a joint notification on 7 April, prohibiting the use of Kawkareik-Myawaddy road which is part of the Asia Highway in Kayin or Karen State near the Thai border for 15 days from 7 to 21 April.

Clashes between resistance groups and junta forces have intensified since March along the Asia Highway in Kawkareik and Myawaddy townships.

As the military has suffered losses in the battles, they are using civilian vehicles to transport troops, ammunition and food to reinforce their positions in Karen State.

The joint notification was signed by the platoon leaders of Cobra Column, White Dragon Battalion, Lion Battalion Commando, Dawna Battalion, Galon Battalion and White Tiger Battalion, the commander of KNU/KNLA (PC), the Tactical Operation Commander of KNU/KNLA(PC), the deputy platoon leader of Black Leopard PDF, and the deputy regional commander of Southern Military Command.