Locals who fled to Muse after fighting between the Myanmar army and the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) have started returning home as they worry about disruption to their work, according to local sources.
They were displaced from Seilant, Mankan, Namkat, Gaung Ywar Thit and Mong Hsat villages in Seilant village tract and started returnin g to their villages on 3 October, said a local assisting the displaced.
“There are over 300 displaced people in Ton Khun village. They had to flee and return home three times over the last two months, which destroyed their livelihoods. Although there is no more fighting, tensions remain in the area. So they are still scared,” said a local aid worker.
Fighting broke out between the Myanmar army and the TNLA near Seilant village from the morning of 29 August to 30 August, forcing nearly 600 people from nearby villages to flee to safety.
The displaced people took shelter in Honar, Sumsaw and Tinglong wards and Panghkam village in Muse and Ton Khun village in Namhkam Township.
Although there are currently no clashes between the junta forces and the TNLA in the area, some displaced people have not yet been able to return home due to the ongoing military tension, the aid worker said.
“About 200 displaced residents of Manneint haven’t yet returned because junta troops are still present near their village. So they are afraid to go home. They also fear that more fighting could break out,” he said.
Locals report that members of armed groups entered the villages, looted and occupied their homes after villagers fled their homes.
Clashes between the military council and TNLA forces in Muse Township have also led to the destruction of civilian homes by artillery fire, and civilian casualties.
Sent by Shan Herald.