August 18, 2024

Residents of four villages in Pwintbyu Township and Saitottaya Township, Magway Region, have been forced to flee as the military junta launched an offensive in the area, according to local sources.

The offensive, which began on the morning of August 17, involves over 60 troops from the Pwintbyu police station, advancing towards villages near the border with Saitottaya Township. Villages affected include Yay Yone Village in Pwintbyu Township, and Moe Nhyin, Khonam, and Wanlo Villages in Saitottaya Township.

Local residents reported that the military used heavy and small arms to fire upon the villages. “Since yesterday, military columns have been moving in. There have been some instances of firing towards the villages, so people are fleeing,” a local from Pwintbyu told New Day Myanmar.

Given the potential for further military operations in the vicinity of Pwintbyu, the 7th Battalion of Minbu District and Pwintbyu Township PDF have issued warnings to civilians living near the Mezalai Village police station to relocate for safety.

This escalation in military activity has led to increased instability and displacement in the region, adding to the already significant challenges faced by local populations.