Mongpai (Mobye) Town, situated in southern Shan State near the border with Karenni (Kayah) State, continues to experience occasional clashes between junta troops and resistance forces. Amidst this turmoil, the junta has significantly increased airlifts of weapons and ammunition to the 422nd Light Infantry Battalion (LIB-422), which is stationed close to Mongpai, according to a spokesperson for Moebye People’s Defence Force (MBPDF).
"Clashes continue to occur sporadically, and we've observed a noticeable increase in activity from junta troops in recent weeks. In particular, the junta has ramped up its airlifts of weapons and ammunition,” he said.
He added that following August 5, the junta obviously intensified its airlifting of weapons and ammunition to LIB-422. Additionally, the junta’s military operations have been carried out beyond the nearby areas of the battalion's base, with reports of indiscriminate shelling occurring in nearby residential areas.
Furthermore, the junta's military aircraft have been increasingly active in the area, prompting local schools to temporarily shut down due to the heightened risk of airstrikes.
"We believe the situation remains entirely concerning. That's why our school has proactively constructed underground bomb shelters. If the security situation does not improve, we may need to keep the schools closed for a bit longer, if necessary”, a schoolteacher said.
On July 25, LIB-422 breached the Mongpai Dam, resulting in flooding in parts of Mongpai, Demoso, and Loikaw.
On August 10, MBPDF issued a statement advising that war-displaced individuals should refrain from returning to their homes due to the continuing clashes and heightened military tensions in Mongpai.
