Over 8,000 IDPs in Kyaikhto Township in Urgent Need of Food Aid Following Junta Attacks

May 6, 2025

More than 8,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Kyaikhto Township, Mon State, are in desperate need of emergency food assistance after fleeing renewed attacks by junta forces. According to the Karen National Union (KNU) in Thaton District, intensified artillery shelling and airstrikes by the junta have driven thousands from their homes and villages over recent weeks.

Fighting escalated in early April when clashes between junta troops and local resistance forces resumed, prompting the junta to increase its use of heavy weapons and aerial assaults across Kyaikhto. Entire communities, particularly in Pyin Kadoe Kone and Khaywe village tracts, have been forced to flee. At least 15 villages in these areas are now abandoned, and over 8,000 people have been displaced, according to local sources.

“The junta is firing heavy artillery daily. Every day, more people are fleeing. The displaced population is growing, and we can no longer support everyone. Right now, the most urgent need is food,” said Pado Saw Aye Naing, the KNU District Secretary of Thaton.

Many IDPs have sought shelter in nearby KNU-controlled villages or hidden in caves along the Kaung Taung mountain range. Others are taking refuge in makeshift camps with no access to clean water or proper medical care. Humanitarian relief efforts are being organized by local community-based groups, but the needs far exceed available resources.

Since the powerful earthquake that struck Burma on March 28, HURFOM has documented a surge in junta-led artillery attacks across southeastern Burma, including in Kyaikhto. According to data gathered by HURFOM and partner networks, junta troops stationed in the area have launched at least five rounds of shelling per day, despite no ongoing clashes in many locations. This tactic has caused fear, injury, and further displacement—especially among women, children, and the elderly.

Additionally, nearly 1,000 civilians from other parts of Kyaikhto have fled toward Theinzayat town. Locals report that many are struggling with severe shortages of food and medicine. With ongoing insecurity and no sign of military de-escalation, humanitarian needs are only expected to worsen.

HURFOM reiterates its urgent call to international donors and humanitarian actors to ensure immediate, cross-border assistance reaches the most affected communities—especially those beyond the reach of junta-controlled aid delivery systems. All aid must be delivered through trusted, locally led groups working on the ground.

Written by HURFOM · Filed Under News