5,000 flee Monywa Township as Myanmar junta troops advance and fortify positions

Mizzima

Around 5,000 residents from five villages in Monywa Township have fled their homes following the advance of junta forces along the Monywa–Aryataw road and the establishment of fortified military positions, according to local sources.

Beginning on 8 August, approximately 800 troops from the Northwestern Regional Military Command moved into the area, setting up fortified outposts. Locals say soldiers have been forcing residents to work as porters, prompting widespread fear, particularly among families with adult children.

“People are terrified because the troops are building positions and forcing locals to work as porters. Many of us have grown-up children, and we fear for their safety if they encounter soldiers. The weather has been bad, making living conditions even harder,” a woman from Kyaukka told Mizzima.

Revolutionary forces in the township report that the junta is using mechanized paragliders to guard its new positions while deploying heavy troop strength along the road.