Local residents report that thousands of civilians from over 20 villages have been forced to flee after the military forces conducting operations along the Mandalay-Shwebo road in Sagaing Region burned down eight villages. The military column, which has been operating in the area for two months since June, consists of approximately 400 troops including armored vehicles. The forces have been systematically entering and destroying villages along their path of operation.
The military column has consecutively burned down Thitchoekone, Kyaw Zeya, Bagan Tu, Yangmagyin, Chokeegyi, Lintaluu, Thanphyutaw, and Kyarmingi villages. The exact number of destroyed homes has not yet been confirmed. Due to these military operations, residents from more than 20 villages along the Mandalay-Shwebo road, including those from the burned villages, have been forced to flee to safer locations. According to local sources, the military column originated from the 6005 Tank Battalion and has been conducting operations along the Mandalay-Shwebo road since June. Due to the ongoing presence of military forces in the area, civilians are unable to return to their villages.
Continuous clashes have been occurring between the military column and resistance forces during this two-month period. The resistance forces are reportedly facing urgent needs for ammunition and supplies as they continue to defend against the military operations. Local residents report that when the military forces enter villages, they not only burn houses but also destroy and loot civilian properties. The displaced civilians are facing severe shortages of food, medicine, and basic necessities, requiring urgent humanitarian assistance. The military operations have significantly deteriorated the security situation in the region and severely disrupted the daily lives of local residents. The ongoing military presence continues to prevent displaced villagers from returning to their homes, creating a prolonged humanitarian crisis in the area.
