More than 100,000 civilians have been displaced due to the clashes in the Pa-O autonomous region in southern Shan State over the past two months, as stated by the Pa-O Youth Organization (PYO).

The conflict began in Hopong Township when the Pa-O National Liberation Army (PNLA) clashed with junta soldiers and the allied Pa-O National Army (PNA) during an attempt to disarm a PNLA convoy on January 21.

Despite signing the 2015 National Ceasefire Agreement, the PNLA, along with the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force and other anti-regime groups, launched an attack on Hsihseng town on January 24, leading to ongoing fighting.

According to the PYO, approximately 101,800 individuals have been displaced across Hsihseng, Hopong, and Pinlaung townships, with many seeking shelter in forests and facing urgent needs for food and shelter.

Since the conflict began, 65,900 displaced civilians have been reported in Hsihseng Township and 18,600 in Hopong Township, while fighting in Pinlaung Township has resulted in around 17,300 individuals being displaced, with villages being abandoned.

Moreover, the PYO highlighted that more than 23,000 people have moved to southern Shan State from Karenni (Kayah) State in 2022 and 2023, adding to the already dire humanitarian situation.

Rescue workers in Hsihseng emphasized the urgent need for food and medicine for those sheltering in forests near their homes, especially for the injured and sick, as junta airstrikes have caused further destruction and displacement.

Additionally, reports indicate that civilians in Pinlaung Township are being coerced to support junta troops and the PNA, with some forced to join the army and provide financial contributions, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.

BOB Post