Several Evacuees Who Fled From Seng Tawng Village Have Returned To Their Residences

Pajau Media

30th October, 2024

Local news reports indicate that the recent conflict in Hpakant, Kachin State has subsided, and some evacuees who had previously fled have now returned to their residences. Nevertheless, those whose homes were destroyed in the incident are unable to return and are in urgent need of support to rebuild their houses.

Approximately 1,000 local residents were evacuated to safety during the armed conflict in Hpakant-Seng Tawng, which lasted for nearly a month. While those who still possess their homes have been able to return, the evacuees whose residences were reduced to ashes are unable to go back and require substantial assistance to reconstruct their homes.

The KIA, which holds authority over the region, is currently overseeing the clearance of conflict areas. An official from the Hpakant region stated that the locations where houses were destroyed have been cleared. Individuals who have lost their homes have not yet returned, while those who still possess their residences have returned to them as they did previously. However, the rehabilitation efforts cannot commence at this time.

Nearly 180 residences were consumed by flames amid the conflict in Seng Tawng, attributed to the actions of the SAC. Reports indicate that 70 homes were lost as a result of aerial bombardments conducted by the SAC, alongside the detonation of heavy artillery shells. Additionally, over 30 houses fell victim to theft and vandalism perpetrated by criminals.

It is also recognized that the regions currently inaccessible include Hpa Pyin and Kyauk Tway Taung villages, while the Yuma area remains under the control of SAC forces, preventing any clearance at this time.

Local residents are urging the KIO government to assume responsibility for the rehabilitation of the destroyed houses; however, officials have stated that they can only proceed after consulting with the relevant authorities.

It is reported that 16 civilians lost their lives and 38 sustained serious injuries during the Seng Tawng skirmish, which lasted nearly a month beginning on September 1st. Additionally, the Seng Tawng region has been under the control of the KIA joint forces since October 9th.