Over 1,000 Displaced By Fighting
Thursday, November 22, 2019
By Network Media Group
Fighting between the Myanmar Army and armed groups in restive northern Shan State displaced over 1,000 civilians in recent months. Aid workers said it was difficult reaching those in need.
Many require immediate emergency aid, said Lway Chee Sangar, a spokesperson for the Ta’ang Women Organization (TWO). “As far as I know, none of the large organizations have provided assistance. The community is giving them what they can.”
Many IDPs are taking refuge in Mang Hkok and Pang Ning, in Kyaukme township and Kyauk Phyulay village, located in Namhsan township.
During the weekend, over 300 people from Khun Kaw, Taw Hpe and Ohn Oui fled to Pang Ning.
A local told NMG they need food and blankets. Yet, ongoing clashes and poor transportation routes to the remote villages poise obstacles for workers providing for the IDPs
Yesterday, the Burma Army launched an airstrike against a Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) position in Namhsan township, Maj Mai Aik Kyaw, in charge of TNLA’s information department, told NMG.
“Two combat helicopters from the Burma Army attacked us around 1:00 pm.”
Since November 11, fighting between the Tatmadaw and TNLA has been intense despite the Ta’ang armed group being in an unilateral ceasefire with other members of the Northern Alliance.
Locals and civil society groups reported homes and schools were damaged after shells landed in villages and there have also been civilian casualties caused by the fighting in recent months.
