Nearly 6,500 residents have been forced to flee their homes in southern Pauk Township, Magway Region, following the entry of a massive military convoy on 17 May.

The military convoy from Weapon Factory (KaPaSa) 22 in Seikphyu Township, Magway Region, entered Pauk Township, according to the Pauk Township Humanitarian Affairs Department on 18 May.

A local resident said the convoy, which included a large number of troops and several food supply trucks, entered Pauk Township on 17 May.

“Residents are fleeing because of the military convoy advancing from Seikphyu. Many are currently sheltering in nearby villages,” the resident said.

The convoy, reportedly made up of around 400 troops, reached an area near Thapyayaye village at about 7 pm on 17 May.

Residents from seven villages in southern Pauk Township, including Chetkan, Thapyayaye, Kyaoe and Sharpinyae, have been displaced as the military column advances through the area.

The Pauk Township Humanitarian Affairs Group warned residents to remain alert, saying the large military presence could lead to violence, looting and other abuses.

The military column reportedly departed from the No. 22 Weapon Factory in Seikphyu Township on 1 May, arrived at Weapon Factory (KaPaSa) 24in Pauk Township on 8 May, and later launched operations in villages west of Pauk Township.