The people of Sami are running low on rice and other supplies because the military has blocked both transport routes to the town in southern Chin State.

''We can not go to eat in a restaurant and we can not buy rice," said one local, adding that everyone knew these vital supplies would eventually run out when soldiers blocked both roads into the town in Paletwa Township in late August.

The townspeople asked Burma Army (BA) for permission to deliver more rice from Kyauktaw after the price of a bag skyrocketed to 40,000-80,000 kyats ($24.50-$49), which is more than anyone can afford.

About 50,000 people live in Sami, as well as 5,000 villagers displaced by clashes between BA and Arakan Army last year, who live in camps in the town.