More than 60 villages in Minhla Township, Thayarwady District, Bago Region, have been forced to flee as the military junta intensifies artillery bombardments and ground assaults, local resistance forces reported.

Junta troops have reportedly torched at least three villages, and resistance groups estimate that over 10,000 civilians have been displaced amid the escalating violence.

“We can’t yet confirm the number of houses destroyed, as access to the affected areas remains impossible due to ongoing military operations,” said an officer from Thayarwady District Battalion 3802.

The villages affected include Kyaung Ywa, Kywel Ma Kine, Shan Kone, Yway Kone, San Gyi, Than Taung Kwin (also known as Kat Kyaw Ywa Thit), Htain Yu, Htain Yu Junction, Bo Yone, War Yar, Pyin Ka Doe Khin, San Bote, Kyun Kone, Sar Chaung (East), Khwet Ma, Nga Hla San, Nga Moe Yate, Zarit Myaung, Shwe Pauk Pin, and many others.

On 1 May, over 40 junta soldiers reportedly entered Nga Moe Yate Village and, by the afternoon of 2 May, had stationed themselves at the local monastery, according to the same battalion source.

Alongside ground raids, the junta has been conducting relentless day-and-night artillery attacks from several bases, including Infantry Battalion (1), Kyaukdaga Pagoda Hill, Tar Kale Monastery, and Sitkwin Junction all within Minhla Township.

“Most villagers have fled to nearby towns or safer areas. Those who lack the means to escape are hiding in the forests and urgently need food and shelter,” said a member of the local resistance.

The intensified military action is believed to be retaliation for a clash on 27 April near Nga Moe Yate Village, during which 10 junta soldiers were reportedly killed and twelve firearms seized by resistance forces.

After burning down Zarit Myaung and Shwe Pauk Pin villages on 30 April, junta troops set fire to Nga Moe Yate the next day, 1 May.

With aerial assaults and heavy artillery shelling ongoing, resistance groups are urging residents to construct and use underground bomb shelters to protect themselves from the escalating conflict.