Renewed clashes have broken out in Lay Kay Kaw Town, Myawaddy Township, Karen State, displacing increasing numbers of people and creating an urgent need for food and other assistance, according to the local aid group Lay Kay Kaw Youth Network.

Since September 9, intense fighting between the junta and resistance forces has forced residents of Lay Kay Kaw Town and nearby villages, including Hteemeiwahkhee, to flee their homes in search of safety.

Over 1,000 displaced people are currently sheltering in seven camps, where the heavy monsoon rains have further deepened their hardships.

“These people have already been displaced by clashes before, and now they’re struggling with their livelihoods because of repeated displacements. On top of that, they’re also worried about how they’ll rebuild,” said Naw Jet, a member of the Lay Kay Kaw Youth Network.

The group has so far carried out 10 rounds of aid deliveries to displaced people, providing rice, tarpaulin sheets for shelter, dry rations, clothing, and mosquito nets, as well as supporting the installation of toilets and water pumps. Lay Kay Kaw Youth Network has also called on donors to join in supporting displaced people.

As of September 30, junta troops continue their push toward Lay Kay Kaw, engaging in fierce clashes with resistance forces led by the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA), while the junta is also carrying out large-scale heavy artillery strikes to support its ground troops.

In addition, the junta's drone strikes have destroyed schools and monastery buildings in Falu and Minletpan villages near Lay Kay Kaw, according to locals.

photo credit - Lay Kay Kaw Youth Network