The regime’s air and ground forces have attacked the Ta’ang National Liberation Army camp inPalaung (Ta’ang) Self-Administered Zone in Namhsan Township since last Wednesday.

A woman who spoke to NMG on condition of anonymity said the junta has been attacking the Ta’ang soldiers with jet fighters and artillery, forcing many civilians to flee to Namhsan town,where she lives.

A Ta’ang youth who also requested anonymity says: “Locals have been trying to flee the battle area, but the Burmese army has tightened security around Namhsan town and is checking all travellers. We are still trying to rescue locals who are trapped in their village.”

Fighting has closed schools in the area.

Villagers from Mang Lon reached the Zayang Gyi Buddhist monastery in Namhsan town on the morning of 9 December, according to a volunteer who, like others, does not want to be named.

Although he could not say how many people were there, more were coming, he said.

“A volunteer team rescued 25 people, including children and the elderly, from their village and brought them to Zayang Gyi Monastery today.”

So far, at least five villages have taken refuge in the monastery and everyone needs emergency aid.

Two jet fighters dropped bombs on the TNLA camp at 2pm on 7 December and attacked Hu Mang and Kon Tha at 4am the next day. The junta also shelled the camp, some of which landed in villages. At the same time, ground troops attacked the ethnic armed group.

Although the NMG could not confirm whether there were civilian casualties during the fighting, the Shwe Hpi Myae News Agency reported that Kon Tha residents were still trapped in their village.