Nearly 100,000 civilians have been forced to flee their homes due to ongoing fighting and aerial bombardments by the military junta in Kawkareik Township, Karen State, according to the Human Rights Foundation of Monland (HURFOM).
Hostilities escalated on April 14, when the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and allied resistance forces launched coordinated attacks on military bases and headquarters across the township. Since then, intense fighting has continued, prompting the junta to conduct repeated airstrikes, particularly around Kyone Doe town.
“More than 30 villages in the area including both Karen and Mon communities have been emptied as nearly 100,000 residents fled for safety. Those with financial means or urban connections escaped to towns. Many Mon people have taken refuge in Mawlamyine, Kyaikmaraw, and across the Gyaing River, while Karen residents fled toward Hpa-An. Some remain trapped in rubber plantations and forests, unable to leave. The military isn’t allowing them out,” said Nai Aue Mon, Director of HURFOM.
HURFOM reports that at least 20 civilians, including children and Buddhist monks, have been killed by junta airstrikes since fighting began in the area.
The military continues to reinforce troops near Kyone Doe and has deliberately shelled civilian homes and religious buildings. Air raids have also intensified, with no signs of de-escalation. Sources in Mawlamyine assisting displaced civilians said many have arrived injured from the airstrikes.
“We are helping wounded individuals who fled to Mawlamyine after being hit by bombs. Some IDPs are staying at monasteries, others with relatives. Due to security concerns, we can no longer go into the villages to assist like before. Now, we help only those who manage to reach us. Displaced people are scattered. Some monasteries house 20 to 30 people each, and others have rented places. We don’t know the exact number” said a local volunteer.
Currently, KNLA and resistance forces are surrounding areas near Kyone Doe, leading the junta to establish fortified positions in Kawkareik and Kyone Doe. In response, the military has been launching frequent artillery and airstrikes into nearby villages.
