Military column stationed in village in Kyaukkyan, locals unable to return home

YT (July 10) Mizzima. A military column that entered Kyaukkyan Township, Bago Region, is currently (July 10) stationed within a village, preventing locals from returning to their homes, according to sources. It is reported that the military column entered Chakattan Gyi village in the northeast of Kyaukkyan Township on July 8, and shot and killed an elderly villager in the afternoon of the same day. "They are staying in Chakattan Gyi village. They shot and killed a farmer returning from the fields on the 8th and are still staying in that village. The situation is such that they are gradually advancing towards the eastern villages," said an official from a People's Defence Force based in Kyaukkyan Township. It is understood from the official's statement that no fighting has occurred since the military column entered, and that more than eight villages have had to evacuate their civilian populations to safer locations due to the military column's advance. "The villages where people are fleeing are Chakattan Gyi village, Sin Paing village, Min Wa village, Sein Chaung village, Kyaw Se village, Set Net Kwin village, Thae Kon village, and Myo Koong village. The residents are fleeing towards the foothills," explained an official from a People's Defence Force based in Kyaukkyan Township regarding the situation of the fleeing locals. "When they fled, many could not bring shelters, blankets, or mosquito nets, so they are suffering from mosquito bites during the rainy season, and the difficulties are many due to the rainy season. The displaced people cannot stay in one place, so they are living as best they can in the foothills. They are also facing difficulties with food supplies. Since they are fleeing outside, there are difficulties with food and medicine. As the days go by, medical assistance is also needed," he added. It is reported that shelters, food, and medical assistance are also needed for these displaced people due to the rainy season. It is understood that the civilian killed by the military column was U Kyi Soe (58 years old), who was shot and died from blood loss while fleeing in fear due to the military column's advance while he was in his field. Editor: Aung Kyaw Phyo