More than 3,000 locals in Ann Township, Arakan State, who have fled their homes due to fighting, are in urgent need of emergency assistance, according to aid workers.
The displaced people desperately need food, shelter, and medicine. Due to limited support, they are facing numerous hardships.
“They fled with only the clothes on their backs. Right now, they need everything, starting from basic clothing,” said writer Wai Hun Aung, a social worker.
Among those who fled are children and elderly people. With winter approaching, there is also an urgent need for warm clothing, according to reports.
These internally displaced persons (IDPs) have fled to safer areas due to fighting near their villages and the threats of airstrikes and artillery attacks by the military junta. The displaced include residents who fled from Ann town itself.
Currently, the Arakha Army (AA) is conducting an offensive to capture the Western Command, resulting in intense fighting. Many Ann residents remain trapped in the town.
“Some people escaped with AA’s help, while others fled through various other means. But fleeing is very challenging right now. That’s why many people remain trapped in the town,” said an Ann resident.
The number of IDPs in Arakan State has grown to nearly 700,000 due to the fighting. There remains a high demand for emergency assistance including food, medicine, and shelter.
Since the beginning of the armed conflict, IDPs have faced increased hardships due to limited support from local social organizations and the absence of international aid organizations, which have been blocked by the military council’s road closures.
Sent by Aung Htein (DMG)
