More than 10,000 residents have fled their homes as Myanmar junta troops advance into Pauk Township in Magway Region, according to local sources.

Military units stationed at Seikphyu Defence Product Industries No. 21 and No. 22 began pushing into the southern part of Pauk Township in late October, while another column from Myaing Township Industry No. 2 moved into the northern part of the township at around 9:30 am on 17 November.

Locals said each column consists of around 100 soldiers.

“We had to flee before we could harvest our winter beans and peas. Since it is winter, we’re exposed to the cold while on the run. The worst part is the emotional and psychological trauma. It is especially hard on vulnerable children and the elderly,” a Pauk Township resident told Mizzima.

The advancing troops are currently positioned about four miles from the oil fields. Their operations have displaced residents from at least 20 villages, including Kabarphyu, Tegyi, Kanthit, Htanpaukkone, and Phalankone.

“The soldiers told the people they captured not to flee and to meet them peacefully. Those who complied were given food and told to register for the upcoming election through advance voting,” said a member of a joint revolutionary group based in Myaing Township.

The troops have reportedly killed five civilians including one woman and burned down about 25 homes during their advance.