Heavy fighting between junta forces and Karenni resistance fighters erupted this week in Pekon Township, southern Shan State’s Taunggyi District, with casualties reported on both sides, as well as civilians.

Since November 1, the junta and Pa-O National Organisation (PNO) alliance have clashed with the Karenni resistance coalition in western Pekon Township, near the Karenni State border. Intense fighting around Bawyan Village lasted until November 3 before easing.

“The fighting was really intense on November 1 and 2. On the evening of November 2, around 7 pm, the junta tried to advance again. On November 3, clashes continued for almost the entire day until about 5 pm, before things finally quieted down,” said a resistance frontline source.

The three days of clashes resulted in casualties on both sides, and at least one civilian was also killed.

“A civilian was killed instantly after being hit in the chest. During the three days of fighting, one of our comrades was martyred, and several others were wounded. On the junta’s side, one officer and some low-ranking soldiers were also killed,” the source added.

In the recent fighting in Pekon Township, the junta carried out barrages with artillery and drones.

Additionally, in the first half of October, locals reported that the junta, together with the PNO, entered Bawyan, Salon North, and Salon South villages in western Pekon Township and set fire to houses.

Currently, around 3,000 residents from these villages have sought refuge in nearby safer villages and forests, and are in urgent need of food and medical aid.