A revered monk and a humanitarian worker were tragically shot and killed while aiding internal displaced person in Pai Khun (Phekhon) Township, Southern Shan State, on March 4. The attack has sent shockwaves through the local community, heightening fears for those providing humanitarian assistance in the conflict-torn region.

Around 4:30 p.m., Sao Yawm, also known as Sao Dhammasara, was traveling to Ontaing Village when he was ambushed and fatally shot. His companion, a displaced man in his 40s, was also killed in the attack.

“The monk was shot eight times, and his companion was shot twice. It is unclear who was responsible, as both the Karenni Army and the Pa-O militia (PNO) were present in the area,” a source told SHAN.

Sao Yawm, 47, was a respected monk from a Shan monastery in Pai Khun Township, known for his unwavering dedication to displaced communities. For the past three years, he had been actively supporting those forced to flee violence, offering them food, shelter, and guidance.

“He wasn’t just a religious leader and he was a beacon of hope,” said a local resident. “The displaced people depended on him, not just for aid, but for strength and encouragement.”

The monk also played a key role in preserving the Shan language and culture, further endearing him to the people he served.

Although neither the monk nor his followers had known conflicts with any armed group, some suspect the attack was intended to stoke religious and ethnic tensions in the volatile region.

“In this area, people are killed without reason. But the monk had no enemies,” a resident remarked. “This feels like an attempt to create division and fear.”

The brutal attack has had an immediate chilling effect on humanitarian efforts, with some aid workers now too fearful to continue their work.

“Many who were helping IDPs have stopped out of fear. We must constantly be cautious,” said a woman involved in relief efforts. “Providing aid is an act of humanity. If those helping IDPs are targeted, who will support them?”

IDPs, already struggling to survive, now fear their suffering will deepen as fewer people dare to assist them.

“Targeting humanitarian workers is beyond cruel. The displaced need help, not more suffering,” said an IDP.

In response to the killings, the People’s Defense Force (PDF) Battalion-2 (1006 Battalion) of Pai Khun Township issued a statement on March 5, denying involvement and pledging to cooperate with the People’s Administration for Justice and Truth (PAF) to investigate the case.

For over three years, displaced people from Mong Pai (Moe Bye) and Pai Khun have sought refuge in Pinlaung and surrounding villages, unable to return home due to ongoing violence. Many survive on temporary jobs, living in uncertainty.

The region continues to witness fierce clashes involving the Military, the Pa-O National Liberation Army (PNO), and revolutionary forces. Reports indicate that heavy artillery shelling and airstrikes by the Military have further escalated tensions near the Shan-Karenni border.

As violence surges, the loss of humanitarian figures like Sao Yawm raises urgent concerns about the future of displaced communities and the safety of those risking their lives to help them. The attack underscores the dire need for increased protection of aid workers and a resolution to the ongoing conflict.