In the aftermath of Burma's presidential elections on 7 November, the Burmese Army attacked the Karen Rebels along the Thai-Burma border near Mae Sot. About 20,000 burmese refugees escaped from armed conflicts, crossing the river between Thailand and Burma. The refugees were given shelter by the Thai authorities for the first 24-hours, then sent back to Burma. Thai authorities have been criticised for treating burmese civilians who fled like 'ping pong balls', refusing them the refugees status and forcing their return.
