The Tha Yet Chaung Township People’s Defense Force has issued a warning prohibiting nighttime travel on Union Highway No.8 in the conflict zone as fighting continues daily in Tha Yet Chaung Township, Tanintharyi Region.
The ongoing fighting stems from a recent operation by the combined People’s Defense Forces (PDFs) to seize the Win Wa hilltop outpost in Win Wa village in Tha Yet Chaung Township, leading to daily clashes between the two sides.
Since 24 April, Union Highway No.8 connecting Myeik and Dawei has been closed to traffic from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. until further notice, according to a statement from the Tha Yet Chaung Township PDF.
In addition to the ground battles, the military council has been conducting daily bombing attacks, forcing nearly 6,000 local residents to flee to safer areas, said an official from the Taung Pyauk Station IDP Assistance Group.
Meanwhile, fighting between the junta and resistance forces in Palauk Township on the border of Tha Yet Chaung and Palaw Townships, has also disrupted traffic on Union Highway No.8, causing shortages of food and fuel.
Airstrikes by the military junta have resulted in civilian casualties and property damage, including the destruction of a house in Kywe Chan village on the morning of 25 April, according to local sources.
Given the volatile situation, the People’s Defense Force has mandated that travelers during the restricted hours must undergo security checks and obtain permission. Unauthorized travel will be at the individual’s own risk, and suspicious activities will face strict action, the Tha Yet Chaung Township PDF warned in its statement.
Sent by Than Lwin Times.
