The military junta has prevented residents of Chaungnakwa in Kyaikmaraw Township, Mon State, from returning to their homes, citing security concerns, according to local sources.
Since November 10, 2023, clashes have erupted between the military junta and the Karen National Union (KNU) joint forces in the Chaungnakwa area. These conflicts have forced thousands of residents from Chaungnakwa and nearby villages such as Taung Kalay and HlaKaZine to flee their homes.
After nearly seven months of displacement, the displaced residents are facing severe difficulties with food and shelter, prompting them to attempt to return to their homes. Despite multiple requests—more than seven times—to the military junta stationed at the Chaungnakwa police station and the General Administration Department of Kyaikmaraw Township, permission to return has not been granted.
A resident of Chaungnakwa said, “The military junta says they have laid landmines in the Chaungnakwa area and that it’s unsafe for residents to return. We’ve been living in other places for over six months due to the ongoing conflict in our area. This has caused significant hardship in terms of living conditions and food.”
Additionally, the resident noted that children have lost access to education, and valuable items left in the homes have been looted. Over 2,000 displaced residents from Chaungnakwa are currently staying with relatives, friends, and in monasteries in cities like Mawlamyine, Mudon, and Kyaikmaraw.
Residents attempting to return to Chaungnakwa have reported arrests and beatings by the military junta, who have also been looting houses.
During the clashes, at least 10 residents were killed, and more than 20 were injured. Additionally, over 100 houses were burned down by the military junta, and the Attaran Chaungnakwa bridge on the Mudon-Kyainseikgyi road was destroyed by explosives.
