The resistance-run Mindat Township People’s Administration has imposed a curfew in Mindat Town, southern Chin State, following a spate of thefts targeting homes abandoned by displaced residents.

A curfew from 9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. took effect in the town on May 27.

As the junta advances into resistance-controlled southern Chin State, residents have been evacuating Mindat in anticipation of possible clashes, while resistance forces step up defensive preparations.

Mindat Township People’s Administration has been conducting nightly patrols after reports that criminals were exploiting the evacuation by breaking into homes left vacant by displaced residents.

Authorities in Mindat have issued guidelines for residents, including avoiding large gatherings and staying indoors during the curfew hours.

Since early May, junta forces have launched large-scale offensives in southern Chin State, deploying ground assaults and airstrikes in an attempt to retake the resistance-held towns of Mindat and Kanpetlet, triggering intense fighting.