The clashes between the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) joint forces and the military and Border Guard Force (BGF) joint forces have intensified in Kawkareik Township, Dooplaya District of the KNU-controlled area, according to the locals.

The KNLA joint forces confronted the military forces and BGF who invaded the southern An Pha Gyi of Kawkayeik Township between An Pha Gyi and Phan Kha Gone, and another clash broke out on the morning of March 19.

Therefore, civilians in southern Kawkareik have to flee again, the aid workers said.

Military council troops entered the KNU-controlled area of Kawkareik Township last January and stationed there. There has been no retreats so far, reinforcing the troops and launching offensives.

Despite the ceasefire, the military council conducted a series of artillery attacks and airstrikes into the KNU-controlled area including Brigade 6, which left many civilians dead.