Pajau Media
16th October, 2024
As skirmishes have escalated in the vicinity of Panwa town, located in Kachin Special Region (1), since the beginning of October, approximately 500 local residents from the areas affected by the clashes have sought refuge in hospitals and churches in Pang Wa.
The local residents said that some of the locals sought refuge in Pang Wa city, while others fled to the jungle or crossed into China. Furthermore, there are individuals who have become stranded on the way while evacuating to Waing Maw and Myitkyina. At present, the Militia is actively recruiting soldiers, which has instilled fear and concern among the locals regarding their travel.
The Pang Wa region, known for its rare earth mining activities, has experienced disruptions due to escalating conflicts, resulting in the closure of several mining blocks. Currently, only a limited number of mining operations remain active. A local resident employed in Pang Wa has expressed that returning home has become increasingly difficult due to the ongoing armed confrontations and the travel restrictions imposed by employers on personnel commuting to Pang Wa.
"The battle did not take place in Panwa, but it was intense in the surrounding area, so we could not go anywhere. Previously, we were able to visit Pang Wa, but the recent skirmishes have made such travel impossible. While I have a desire to return home, the closure of roads and recruitment of soldiers’ complicate matters significantly. Additionally, our employers have prohibited us from venturing anywhere. I am uncertain about what the future holds."
The ongoing daily conflict remains intense, as the SAC continues to carry out aerial bombardments and has been reinforcing its forces on a daily basis.
The KIA and PDF joint forces attacked the SAC’s military camps stationed in Chipwi town and Sawlaw town on the morning of September 29th. Additionally, they took control of Chipwi town on September 30th and Sawlaw town on October 2nd. Currently, the conflict is directed towards Pang Wa town, where the hostilities remain fierce.
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