IDPs face food and shelter shortages after clashes around Shan State town of Mobye

By DMG 19 Feb 2022

DMG Newsroom
19 February 2022, Yangon 

Internally displaced people (IDPs) from Mobye town and surrounding villages in Pekon Township, southern Shan State, are in need of food and accommodation after artillery shells hit their homes during recent fighting between the Myanmar military and a joint force of anti-regime armed groups including the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF). 

Clashes between the military and KNDF-allied forces began on February 15 in Mobye town and continued with growing intensity over the next three days. 

The military conducted airstrikes as well as used tanks, and more than 10 houses in Shiwari Supalai village near Mobye town were destroyed by fire after artillery shells hit the village, an official from the Kayan Rescue Committee (KRC) told DMG. 

“Fierce fighting occurred in Mobye town for four days. Junta forces conducted airstrikes at the village where IDPs are taking shelter, and more than 10 houses were destroyed. The area where IDPs can safely take shelter is narrowing,” the official said. 

Both sides suffered significant casualties, and at least three civilians were killed while more than 20 others were injured, according to reports. 

A healthcare worker who is helping to care for the IDPs said the injured civilians have been provided medical treatment at temporary emergency clinics. 

“These clinics are in need of help with medicine supplies,” the healthcare worker said. 

Fighting reportedly first flared on Tuesday after the Myanmar military reinforced its troops in the area, according to sources on the ground, with more than 10,000 residents fleeing their homes in the days that followed amid escalating hostilities.