August 22, 2024
In Kanbalu and Kyonhla Townships, Sagaing Region, military forces and Pyu Saw Htee militia have launched offensives, causing civilians to flee their homes amidst heavy rains, according to a representative from the People’s Defense Force (PDF) in Kanbalu Township.
On August 22, around 7:30 a.m., a joint military convoy of 74 soldiers and Pyu Saw Htee militia moved between Yamar and Ngatopyu Villages, advancing toward the construction site of a dam, forcing nearby villagers to flee for safety. As of now, civilians have not been able to return to their homes.
“The displaced civilians are currently sheltering in Yamar, Yain, Ywarthit, and Natin Kan Baw Yar. The military and militia forces, numbering around 70, have been fortifying the area, but the villagers have been in hiding for weeks,” said the PDF spokesperson from Kanbalu Township.
Later in the day, at 7:35 a.m., a separate military convoy of around 200 soldiers from Kyonhla advanced from Sitagu Buddha University towards Shan Kone, aiming to reach Chiptgyi Village by 10:00 a.m., while another column continued operations in the northern part of Kanbalu.
The PDF representative added, “The military forces are still present in the area, particularly around Pinsa and Innma, with some troops stationed between the two villages. Many villagers have been displaced for over a week now, struggling with food, shelter, and health issues due to the ongoing conflict.”
