Over 1,000 local residents are taking refuge in Kyaukme in northern Shan State due to concerns over the clashes between the Tatmadaw and an ethnic armed group, according to Kyaukme Zewita Social Assistance Association’s chairman U Tin Maung Thein.
The displaced residents have been arriving in Kyaukme since December 30 after fighting broke out between the Tatmadaw and the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) in Ah Pyaung (Aik Pone), Kai Tai, Hin Kyai, and Kyauk Phyu Lay villages between Kyaukme and Namhsan townships.
“Although no severe clashes occurred at the moment, there are signs of possible [clashes]. Everyone fled their villages except the elderly persons suffering from stroke and blind senior folks. We will bring the remaining people from the villages after informing respective armies,” said U Tin Maung Thein.
The displaced residents are staying in Aung Myay Thar Yar, Aung Dhamma Yone, Aung Mingalar, and Waso monasteries and two internally displaced person (IDP) camps have been opened in Mongngawt Township.
Kyaukme IDP Assistance Committee has taken charge of management while donors from the United Nations and other areas such as Mandalay, Lashio, and Pyin Oo Lwin have donated aids for the IDPs, according to U Tin Maung Thein.
