Military junta forces have burned thousands of homes across more than 30 villages in Nyaung-U Township, Mandalay Region, since early June, forcing tens of thousands of residents to flee, according to a local People’s Defence Force (PDF).

“Junta soldiers are burning villages to stir resentment between civilians and the resistance. They say it’s to protect UNESCO-listed areas from stray bullets, but on the ground, over 30 villages have already been torched. The number of destroyed homes is in the thousands, and the displaced are in the tens of thousands. We urge anyone who can assist to help those affected by these arson attacks,” said a representative of the Nyaung-U Township PDF.

Local residents, now sheltering in monasteries and makeshift camps, are facing worsening conditions amid shortages of food, clothing, and shelter. The continued military presence has also prevented displaced villagers from returning to assess the damage to their homes.

On 12 July, junta troops advancing from Ywarma village and reportedly burned down Meelounpyar (South), Meelounpyar (North), and Ywar Thit villages.

“Some columns only withdrew last night. We haven’t been able to fully verify the extent of the damage,” the PDF representative said on the morning of 14 July.

Earlier in the week, military forces burned Chaungshay, Anauk Aun, and Yartawgyi villages on 8 July, followed by arson attacks on Kyaukpyinkan, Zeesamyin, and Myaung on 9 July.

Revolutionary forces reported that the destruction is concentrated in the western part of the township, including Shwekaphyu, Kyao, Myaethanttaung, Maupin, Pyaukpway, Ywarthar, Nyaunghla, Pyinchaung, Lalkan, Kanthar, Kangyikone, Chaungshay, Yartawgyi, Zeesamyin, Kyaukpyinkan, Joekan, Sakhar, and Myaung villages.

Tens of thousands of residents from these areas are now seeking safety, as military columns continue operations in the region, leaving behind scorched homes and widespread displacement.