July 8, 2024
In Lashio, northern Shan State, the Eastern Command has been relentlessly shelling residential areas with heavy weapons, leading civilians to attempt to flee from the violence. Many of these escape routes have been blocked, according to local residents.
Following the attack and capture of the 507 Infantry Battalion by the MNDAA forces on July 7 at around 7 PM, junta troops have continued to shell from within the Eastern Command’s base. This morning, residents of Lashio attempted to leave the city in vehicles to escape the violence, but were met with blockades on multiple escape routes.
“In Lashio, heavy weapons are firing from the Ramakha area, and jet fighters are also flying overhead. The civilians have been trying to flee since this morning, but the escape vehicles are stuck from the city entrance to the Maehan gate. Some have turned back. About 60% of the people have already left the city, while around 40% remain,” a local resident explained the situation.
There are also reports circulating that civilians have been given a three-hour window to evacuate safely; however, residents have been unable to confirm which group issued such warnings.
