Pajau Media
23rd October, 2024
Local inhabitants from Nant Mun, Mai Naung, Sanuin Kone, and Intha villages are seeking refuge in the KIA-controlled regions of Nyaung Pyin, Nat Mauk Kan, and Hepu villages. Furthermore, the SAC has prohibited donors from providing assistance to these evacuees. As a result, there is an urgent requirement for medical supplies and essential food items.
A representative assisting the internally displaced persons (IDPs) stated, "We have established communication with a supply group; however, they are unable to provide assistance to the IDPs due to the presence of Shanni Militia forces at various checkpoints, including those at Nant Mun Mountain, the entrance to Nant Mun village, Nant Mun church, Nant Mun school, and the Mai Naung Militia checkpoint. Even if individuals manage to navigate through those checkpoints, a significant military checkpoint operated by the SAC remains at Lone Tone. Holders of the 5/NRC number, as well as local residents of Nammar, Kachin ethnic groups, and youth, are unable to access the Inndawgyi region.”
Evacuees from the Inndawgyi region who have relocated to the city are reportedly facing challenges regarding their food supply and are currently awaiting assistance from donors.
A 45-year-old woman stated, "It has been three months since my evacuation from Inndawgyi to Mohnyin. Initially, we relocated to Nant Mun from Selzin, and subsequently, we had to move to Mohnyin again. Therefore, we have experienced two evacuations. We were informed that there was assistance available for evacuees in Mohnyin; however, we have not received any support thus far. Since this is not our hometown, we are uncertain about how to sustain ourselves. Given the size of our family, we are compelled to seek food from various sources."
The residences of individuals escaping the conflict have reportedly been subjected to break-ins. Furthermore, the local population is unable to return to their homes due to the ongoing recruitment efforts by the Shanni militia for new soldiers.
A 35-year-old male evacuee from Nant Mun expressed, "Upon leaving our home, we experienced theft of our possessions, and we were too fearful to return for the harvest on our farm. I briefly returned to the village to inspect my house, but due to the recruitment activities of the Shanni Militias, I was compelled to return to the location from which I had resided at the present."
Many of the evacuees who successfully reached safety continue to require assistance from donors.
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