An internally displaced person (IDP) was shot and killed on May 18 in Ohnmathee village, Nawngkio (Naung Cho) Township, as fighting intensifies between the Myanmar military and the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA).

The victim, identified as Sai Aik Leng, was reportedly starting a tractor near Hkiohkam Monastery around 10:30 a.m. when a sniper bullet struck him in the chest, killing him instantly. The monastery, which currently shelters over 100 displaced villagers, came under fire from unidentified armed individuals positioned in a nearby house, according to eyewitnesses.

“There was gunfire near the monastery at the Ohnmathee junction in the morning,” a local resident told SHAN. “Sai Aik Leng was preparing to go to the fields when he was shot. There were no junta troops nearby, only TNLA soldiers.”

Hkiohkam Monastery lies close to active frontlines. TNLA forces are believed to have set up positions near the monastery, while Myanmar military troops are stationed further inside Ohnmathee village. Residents report frequent skirmishes in the area, with both sides using heavy artillery and drones.

SHAN reached out to TNLA spokesperson Lwe Yey Oo for comment, but has not received a response as of publication time.

The killing comes just days after a similar incident. On May 14, Sai Nyunt, 55, was fatally shot in Yaemawngtan village, Samma village tract, while on his way to cut banana trees with his wife. He died instantly from a chest wound. A second individual at the scene was injured and is currently receiving medical treatment in a TNLA-controlled area.

“TNLA troops are active around here,” said a resident of Nawngkio. “We’ve warned people to be extremely careful when going to the fields. The ongoing conflict has surrounded our communities and made everyday life perilous.”

Earlier, on April 1, the TNLA reported that a nine-vehicle convoy operated by the Chinese Red Cross came under fire from Myanmar military forces while delivering earthquake relief supplies near Ohnmathee. The incident was later confirmed by junta spokesperson Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun.