Military Continues Shelling Villages in Phyu Township After Three Days of Fighting, Injuring Six Civilians Including Monks and Children

August 26, 2024

Following three consecutive days of fighting in Phyu Township, Bago Region, the military continued to shell villages with heavy weaponry, resulting in the death of one monk and injuries to six civilians, including children and the elderly, according to KUN.

On August 17, 18, and 19, clashes occurred near Leik Pauk Village in eastern Phyu between the Karen National Liberation Army (K.N.L.A) and military forces. Subsequently, the military’s Khamar-439 battalion shelled the villages of Kon Ein Taung, Kon Ein West, Kon Ein East, Setkone, Sinthekon, and Thapyaykin, forcing local residents to flee for safety.

On August 17 at approximately 4:20 PM, heavy artillery fired by the military’s Khamar-439 battalion hit the Buddhist monastery in Hinthar Village, injuring U Zaw Zaw, U Ukkhara, and U Khaung. Reports indicate that U Zaw Zaw succumbed to his injuries while receiving medical treatment in town. Additionally, a civilian from the village, U Maung, sustained abdominal injuries.

On August 21 at approximately 9:55 AM, the military’s Khamar-599 battalion fired two 120mm shells into Kunthaw Village, causing an explosion in the vicinity of the school, injuring five individuals, including Maung Aung Pyae Soon, Maung Nay Min Myat, Ma Po Kyal Zin, Ma Htet Htet Nway, and another student.