Thousands Flee Homes as Myanmar Ceasefire Collapses

Yaw Mang (possibly also earthquake devastation)

Fierce clashes between Myanmar’s military junta and the Karen National Union (KNU) have forced over 4,000 civilians to flee their homes in central Myanmar, despite an officially declared ceasefire.

Fighting erupted in Shwegyin township in the Bago region, marking a westward expansion of the conflict previously concentrated in Kayin and Mon states. The Karen National Liberation Army, the armed wing of the KNU, has been resisting military rule since the 2021 coup, with battles intensifying during and after the traditional Thingyan New Year holiday.

“There was heavy weapons fire,” one resident told Radio Free Asia, speaking anonymously for safety. “Shrapnel was flying. Residents still can’t re-enter the village.”

More than 850 households in Shwegyin have now been displaced, with many villagers fleeing toward Bago and Yangon, seeking safety in remote areas or makeshift shelters.

In neighbouring Mone township, junta shelling hit Lay Ein Su village, killing a 70-year-old man, Win Naing, and injuring two others. This attack occurred during what was supposed to be a ceasefire, extended by the junta until 30 April to support post-earthquake recovery following a disaster that claimed over 3,700 lives.

Despite the truce, the military has reportedly launched hundreds of assaults in KNU-held areas. The Karen group claims 107 attacks occurred during the initial 20-day ceasefire period alone, killing 20 and wounding 55 civilians.

The exiled National Unity Government (NUG) condemned the ongoing violence, reporting over 240 deaths nationwide during the so-called ceasefire.

Junta officials have remained silent on the latest allegations. Major General Zaw Min Tun, the regime’s spokesperson, did not respond to requests for comment.

As the conflict escalates, thousands are left displaced, cut off from aid, and caught in a cycle of violence with no clear end in sight.

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-2025-04-30