The Chief of Military Affairs of the Karenni Army (KA), Colonel Bone Naing, has confirmed that thousands of local civilians have been forced to flee their homes in Demoso Township, Karenni State, due to ongoing artillery attacks by the military. Since August 8, the military has been conducting offensive operations with two columns in an attempt to regain control of the Loikaw-Demoso-Pruso highway. According to reports, approximately 300 troops from Infantry Battalion 102 and Light Infantry Battalion 427, both based in Ngwe Taung, have split into two columns. These columns are currently positioned near Thar Taung village and around Ngwe Taung Dam, approximately 2,000 meters from Infantry Battalion 102.
Colonel Bone Naing explained that military columns are deliberately targeting civilian populations, forcing residents to flee, particularly in areas east of Pekon. The military has been firing artillery at civilians engaged in agricultural work, compelling local residents to seek safety elsewhere. Despite the ongoing rainy season, displaced civilians are facing severe hardships without proper shelter or accommodation. The situation has become increasingly dire as the military continues its offensive operations, causing widespread displacement and humanitarian concerns in the region.
Additionally, military forces based in Pruso have been continuously firing artillery along the Demoso-Pruso highway. As a result, the KNDF Central News and Information Department has announced an indefinite closure of the Loikaw-Demoso-Pruso highway and all its connecting roads starting from August 10. Colonel Bone Naing noted that this major highway has been effectively closed since 2022, and the current closure is being maintained for civilian safety due to ongoing artillery attacks and airstrikes by the military. The situation continues to deteriorate as the military intensifies its operations in the region, forcing more civilians to abandon their homes and livelihoods in search of safety.
