Junta forces burned and destroyed at least five villages in Budalin Township, Sagaing Region, since launching an offensive on 1 September, according to local residents.

“About five villages have been burned down. Because junta troops are still stationed in the area, the exact number of houses destroyed cannot yet be confirmed. Even today, they are still burning,” said Ko Zay Lin Maung, a Budalin resident.

The affected villages include Shwe Taung, Pauk Sein Pauk, Htan Taw, Kan Thar, and Htoo Kyi, where most residents are farmers.

Around 300 troops from the Northwest Regional Military Command reportedly advanced along the Budalin–Kan Thar road, clashing with resistance forces.

“The military commission forces are launching offensives to create the impression of territorial control. Whenever they encounter revolutionary forces, they burn down civilian homes,” said a member of a resistance group.

With the troops advancing toward Kone Thar village, nearly 5,000 people from 15 surrounding villages including Kone Thar, Zee Taw, Htoo Kyi, Man Kyi Auk, and Aung Thar—have fled their homes.

The military has intensified its operations in the Budalin area since declaring martial law in neighbouring Kani, Yinmabin, and Pale townships, residents said.

photo credit - CJ