Residents of Hsawng Pyaung village—home to over 1,000 households—have once again been forced to flee due to renewed clashes in Pinlaung Township in southern Shan State, according to the Pa-O Youth Organization.
An official from the Pa-O Youth Organization stated that residents began fleeing on 17 May, when ground fighting erupted in Pinlaung Township between the military council and its ally, the Pa-O National Organization (PNO), and resistance forces.
“Fighting resumed in Hsawng Pyaung, Pinlaung, on 17 May. The military council is heavily relying on artillery and airstrikes due to the intensity of the ground clashes. Residents began fleeing that morning, and now the entire village has been emptied,” said an official from the Pa-O Youth Organization.
The official added that the displaced residents are now taking shelter in Pinlaung town and nearby villages.
The Pa-O Youth Organization official added that the local residents have previous experience with displacement.
However, having to flee suddenly once again has left them in urgent need of assistance.
“The locals experienced displacement last year. Due to the sudden outbreak of fighting, they were unable to bring basic necessities like rice, cooking oil, and salt. They also lack essential items such as pots and plates for cooking,” the official said.
According to local residents, intense fighting between the military council, the PNO militia, and resistance forces has been ongoing since 17 May.
Hsawng Pyaung village and nearby villages were first displaced in March 2024 due to prolonged fighting, and are now facing displacement once again.
Sent by Kantarawaddy Times
