Weekly Analysis: Displacement Crisis Worsens in Southeastern Burma

December 9, 2024

HURFOM

Across Southeastern Burma, specifically in target areas of the Human Rights Foundation of Monland (HURFOM), including Mon State, Karen State, and the Tanintharyi region, the junta is escalating its attacks against sheltering populations who the conflict has impacted.

Renewed clashes between the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and allied forces against the junta troops near the Anankwin strategic camp along the Thanbyuzayat-Three Pagodas Pass Road on the Mon-Karen State border have forced thousands of villagers into prolonged displacement.

The fighting, which began on August 18, 2024, continues unabated, displacing residents from Anankwin and nearby villages, including Sakhan Gyi, Zee Hnapin, Yae Tagon, Payaw Hae, Oo Khwe-Daw Yein, Sakaw, and Lutt Shan. Over 1,000 villagers have sought shelter in jungles, plantations, and temporary camps near Thanbyuzayat Township and Mawlamyine City. However, the prolonged period of displacement has left them struggling with severe food shortages, inadequate shelter, and limited medical supplies, according to HURFOM field reports.

“Previously, people could return home after five or ten days, but now it’s impossible because of the junta’s ongoing airstrikes and heavy artillery. They even fire indiscriminately at locations where displaced villagers are hiding,” said a displaced resident from Anankwin.

The humanitarian situation has worsened since the rainy season. Displaced people suffer from flooding, unsanitary conditions, and the absence of aid organizations. With the onset of winter, the lack of proper shelter further exacerbates their plight.

In August alone, junta forces escalated attacks on villages near Anankwin, with heavy artillery and Y-12 fighter jets bombing the area between August 18 and 29. These airstrikes killed at least six civilians, including women and children.

“Junta troops have fortified their positions in Sakhan Gyi, Payaw Hae, and Zee Hnapin, causing widespread fear among residents. Most villagers remain unable to return home, fearing renewed violence,” reported a displaced villager currently sheltering in a nearby forest.

Ongoing junta airstrikes and artillery shelling have targeted civilian areas indiscriminately. In November, reports indicated that junta artillery units based in Waekali fired multiple rounds daily toward Anankwin and neighbouring villages. The use of military jets for reconnaissance and bombing runs has been documented nearly every day throughout November.

In addition to displacement, infrastructure in conflict zones has been severely damaged. Entire villages, such as Lutt Shan, including homes, monasteries, and public buildings, have been destroyed. Internet and communication services have also been cut off, further isolating affected communities.

A resident of Zee Hnapin village said, “It’s been over 10 days since we left our village. The junta forces are still stationed there; we don’t dare return. It’s hard to find enough food or proper shelter in the forest.”

As clashes intensify, the humanitarian needs of displaced populations grow dire, and calls for aid organizations to intervene have become more urgent. With ongoing airstrikes, shelling, and an increasing military presence, the likelihood of villagers returning home remains uncertain, leaving thousands at risk of prolonged suffering.

Overview of Main Cases:

Woman Severely Injured by Landmine in the Tanintharyi Region: A local woman from Yam Pho village in Tanintharyi Township, Myeik District, lost one of her legs after stepping on a landmine near a road while picking betel nuts. The incident occurred at 10 AM on November 29, highlighting the growing risk posed by landmines in civilian areas.
Kyaikto Social Worker Sentenced to 10 Years Under Counter-Terrorism Law: In Mon State’s Kyaikto Township, a member of the Kawsanaing Social Welfare Association has been sentenced to 10 years in prison under the Counter-Terrorism Law. According to local sources, the military junta accused the individual of providing support to the PDFs.
Tightened Checkpoint Inspections Lead to Arrest of Three Youths in Mawlamyine, Mon State: The junta in Mawlamyine City, Mon State, has intensified inspections at security checkpoints, arresting three youths.
On the morning of December 1, junta forces detained three young men at the checkpoint near the Thanlwin Bridge, a key entry point to Mawlamyine.
Artillery Shelling by Waekali Junta Troops Damages Homes in Thanbyuzayat: Three houses in Pa Yaw Hae village, Thanbyuzayat Township, Mon State, were damaged on November 29 when junta troops stationed at the Waekali base fired artillery shells into the area.
Landmine Kills Young Boy in Dawei: A 14-year-old boy from Ka Naing Da village, Dawei Township, tragically lost his life after stepping on a landmine while setting a fish trap, according to local residents.