Over 20,000 civilians displaced by fighting in Hpa-an, parts of Mon State

By DMG 05 Mar 2022

DMG Newsroom
5 March 2022, Sittwe

More than 20,000 locals in areas controlled by Brigade 1 of the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA), the armed wing of the Karen National Union (KNU), in Kayin State have been displaced by fighting there since February, sources told DMG.

Myanmar’s military regime expanded its presence in areas controlled by KNLA Brigade 1 in February, leading to fierce clashes. 

“Clashes happened as junta troops sought to take greater control of the area. And clashes also happened because the KNLA attacked junta outposts,” said the source.

At least five civilians were killed and at least four houses burnt down in junta artillery strikes, according to sources.

More than 20,000 local residents were displaced by the fighting and remain in nearby forests. They are short of food and medicine supplies, said a spokesperson for Karen humanitarian groups helping the displaced persons.

“Fresh clashes have erupted recently, and more than 20,000 locals can’t yet return to their homes, and they badly need food and medicines,” said the aid worker.

A total of 47 clashes took place with junta troops in Thaton and Bilin townships in Mon State and Hpa-an in Kayin State in February, with the regime firing more than 60 artillery shells in those clashes, according to KNLA Brigade 1.