Refugees from Yepyu Township, currently residing in the Kalokani Mon refugee camp near the Thai-Myanmar border, are facing significant difficulties with food and shelter. These issues are making it challenging for them to return to their homes, according to reports from the refugees.
Many of the displaced individuals at the Kalokani camp are former residents of areas that have been burned down, leaving them without homes or livelihoods.
A local from Myaukchaw in Yepyu Township said, “Returning home will be extremely difficult due to food and shelter shortages. Everything—rice and other staples—has been destroyed by the military’s fires. There are no vehicles available, and those who have returned are struggling to obtain rice from the New Mon State Party’s office.”
On June 19, clashes between the People’s Defense Force (PDF) and the military junta near Myaukchaw village in Yepyu Township led to airstrikes and mortar shelling by the junta. As a result, over a hundred residents were forced to flee to safety.
Among the displaced, 124 individuals have arrived at the Kalokani refugee camp on the Thai border. Currently, 12 have returned to their homes, leaving 113 still at the camp, according to aid workers.
A spokesperson from the Mon National Relief and Development Department said, “The displaced people are hesitant to return due to fears of lacking adequate shelter and food. However, once they are ready to return, our department, in collaboration with the Mon Refugee Assistance Committee and the New Mon State Party, plans to assist in rebuilding homes and providing support for those affected by the destruction.”
Residents have reported that the recent fighting has resulted in the destruction of at least 30 homes and significant damage in the area near Myaukchaw village due to airstrikes and mortar fire by the military junta.
