Thousands of civilians have been affected after clashes between Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and Burma army resumed in recent days in Kyaukme Township.

TNLA and its allies recently captured the towns of Kyaukme and Nawngkio after persistent regime shelling and airstrikes ended a Chinese-brokered ceasefire between the groups in northern Shan State.

“Many local people in (Kyaukme) town fled to villages; we are also fleeing,” a woman said, adding that Buddhist monasteries are full of people seeking shelter while others are staying at their relatives’ places. Some have sought safety from the violence in Nawng Ping Lay, Nar Peng, Hko Mung, and Hel Kwi.

“Aircraft are dropping bombs in (Kyaukme) town where few people remain, yet the volunteer teams are still active there,” she explained, adding that phone service in the township has been spotty since the clashes started.

Regime Y-12 aircraft dropped about 25 shells on the downtown of Kyaukme town, Kyauk Tawng, Kyaukme Gyi, Pang Hart, and a Chinese graveyard on June 27.