Local residents of Dawei District have been unable to return to their homes following a military junta invasion due to the presence of landmines.
The invasion occurred in and around Myaukchaw village, located in Yepyu Township. According to reports, the military junta laid landmines as they advanced, making it unsafe for residents to return.
On June 19, a clash between the Revolutionary Joint Forces and the military junta took place in Myaukchaw village. Following the clash, the military advanced with a large force, reportedly laying landmines between Naga Ai and Rone Pyine villages to defend against enemies.
A resident of Dawei District said, “Some people say that there are landmines laid between De Rone Paing and Naga Ai villages. Because of this, the people from Naga Ai village have been strongly warned not to return to their village until the area is cleared.”
As a result, since June 19, over 1,500 residents from the conflict-affected villages of Myauk Chaung, Myet Zeik, Rone Pyine, Kyaung Doon, Ma Raw Cho, and Naga Ai have fled towards the Thai border. Many have also sought refuge in Ye Phyu Township.
“Most people fled on foot. Those with motorcycles and cars could not take them. When things calmed down a bit, those sheltering in monasteries moved to safer villages. Most of those fleeing Hoo Mate Zeik village went on foot,” another resident said.
On June 19 and 20, the military junta carried out airstrikes and set fire to over 30 houses in Myaukchaw village. Additionally, houses in Naga Ai village were burned down on June 22. Although the military withdrew on June 23, residents are still worried about troops hiding in the village houses.
Currently, 24 households, comprising 105 men, women, and children from the Myaukchaw area, whose homes were burned down, are seeking refuge in an area known locally as Krung Keng in Thailand.
