Escalating military tensions in Mawkmai Township, southern Shan State, have left more than 1,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) facing severe health risks and food shortages, according to local volunteers and community sources.

Following clashes in the first week of February 2026, residents from several villages were forced to flee their homes. Many remain in hiding in nearby forests and in Na Hee Village, where access to healthcare, food and clean water is extremely limited.

A female volunteer assisting displaced families described the humanitarian situation as increasingly dire due to the remote locations where people are sheltering.

“The places they are fleeing to are extremely isolated. There is nothing there, and these areas are not reachable by aid groups. Because water is scarce, personal hygiene is very poor. Children and pregnant women have absolutely no access to healthcare.”

According to local sources, there are currently no functioning clinics or regular food supplies available to the displaced population. Community members also reported that the Pa-O National Organization (PNO) militia has not provided medical or food assistance to those forced to flee the fighting.

While a small number of residents have attempted to return to their villages, they continue to face serious security risks. A representative from the Pa-O Youth Organization (PYO) said the situation remains highly unstable.

“Although some people have been able to return to their homes, many remain unemployed and face significant difficulties securing basic necessities. There is constant anxiety over when the fighting might resume. The absence of doctors and healthcare workers also means that children, the elderly and pregnant women are likely to face serious health problems,” the representative said.

Residents say many displaced families are reluctant to return home due to fears of renewed clashes and the possible presence of landmines in agricultural fields. Even those who have returned are struggling to rebuild their lives, as the lack of medical personnel has left vulnerable groups—including children, the elderly and pregnant women—without essential care.

The Kadugyi region, which serves as the headquarters of the Pa-O National Liberation Army (PNLA), has been a frequent target of military operations and airstrikes since January 2024, when fighting first escalated during the Hopong–Hsihseng battles.

The most recent clashes began on Feb. 1, 2026, when junta and PNO joint forces engaged PNLA fighters in the villages of Ban Mat, Naung Htaw and Han Bwar. Although the immediate fighting has subsided, sources estimate that around 80 percent of the displaced population remains in hiding, fearing further violence.