Strategic Divorce: From BGF to KNA—A New Player on the Thai-Myanmar Border

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the military and diplomatic circles in Southeast Asia, the Karen Border Guard Force (BGF), led by the influential Colonel Saw Chit Thu, has officially declared its independence from the Myanmar military. Starting today, the force will operate under the name Karen National Army (KNA), shedding its decade-long status as a junta-subordinated border guard.

Lieutenant Colonel Naing Maung Zaw, a spokesperson for the newly formed KNA, confirmed the transition. “We are changing our insignia to better serve the interests of the Karen nation,” he stated, adding that the group intends to prioritize regional peace and public security while avoiding direct confrontation with other organizations.

The birth of the KNA marks the latest chapter in the long and complex history of Karen armed groups.

• 1994: Elements split from the KNU to form the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA).
• 2010: A portion of the DKBA integrated into the Myanmar military’s command as the BGF.
• 2026: The BGF breaks away to form the KNA, seeking a neutral path amidst the country’s deepening civil war.

According to Myawaddy residents, BGF troops began replacing their junta-linked badges with new KNA emblems as early as last night. While most of the 13 battalions are expected to join the KNA, those who choose to remain as BGF must continue to wear military-issued uniforms and answer directly to Naypyidaw.

The rebranding comes at a time of immense international pressure on the group’s leadership. The KNA (formerly BGF) maintains absolute control over Shwe Kokko, a notorious hub for online scam operations (Kyat Pyant) and illegal casinos.

In May 2025, the United States imposed sanctions on Colonel Saw Chit Thu and his two sons, Saw Htoo El Moo and Saw Chit Chit, for their involvement in human rights abuses and transnational crime. Analysts suggest that the move to form the KNA may be an attempt to distance the organization from the junta’s crumbling international legitimacy and to consolidate local power without being dragged down by the military’s battlefield losses.

The secession of 13 battalions—roughly 4,000 to 6,000 battle-hardened troops—is a major blow to the junta’s control over the Thai-Myanmar border. These battalions are stationed in critical areas, including Myawaddy, Hlaingbwe, Hpapun, and Kyainseikgyi.

As of this morning, a sense of cautious anxiety permeates Myawaddy. While the KNA promises “peace,” the emergence of a powerful, autonomous third force in an already volatile region makes the road to 2026 even more unpredictable.