Originally published by Mizzima
The number of internally displaced people (IDPs) in the Karen National Union’s (KNU) controlled areas increased by 51,555 in February, bringing the total to over 1.1 million, according to the Committee for Internally Displaced Karen People (CIDKP). The surge in displacement is attributed to intensified clashes and airstrikes carried out by the military junta.
CIDKP reported that IDP numbers rose across all seven KNU brigade and districts in February, with KNU Brigade 3 in Nyaunglebin District (Klerlweehtu in Karen) experiencing the highest increase of 20,000 due to heavy fighting.
Other districts also saw significant rises, including 6,224 in Brigade 1 (Thaton District), 10,169 in Brigade 2 (Taungoo District), 2,873 in Brigade 4 (Myeik-Dawei District), 3,525 in Brigade 5 (Hpapun District), 1,899 in Brigade 6 (Dooplaya District), and 6,797 in Brigade 7 (Hpa-An District), according to CIDKP data.
Before February, the total number of displaced individuals stood at approximately 1,071,057. However, due to ongoing military offensives, artillery shelling, and airstrikes, the figure has now surpassed 1,122,612.
Fighting is currently taking place across all seven KNU brigades, with the most intense clashes occurring in Brigade 3, according to sources from the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA).
A source from KNU Brigade 3 states that battles are ongoing in Kyaukkyi, Mone, Nyaunglebin, and Phyu townships. The conflict, which began escalating late last year, has intensified significantly in recent months.
“Brigade 3 has expanded its territory in Bago Region, and its administration is strengthening. As it is closer to Naypyidaw, the junta is deploying heavy artillery, jets, and drones, leading to an increase in displaced persons,” said Naw Wah Khu Shee, director of the Karen Peace Support Network (KPSN).
Similar clashes have erupted in other areas, including Thandaunggyi and Htantabin townships in Brigade 2, as well as Bilin Township in Brigade 1. Additionally, fighting continues along the Tanintharyi-Maw Taung Road in Brigade 4, near Ka Taing Ti camp in Hpapun Township under Brigade 5, and around the Asia Highway in Kawkareik Township within Brigade 6.
KNU’s seven brigades and districts cover regions spanning southeastern Myanmar, including parts of Karen and Mon States and Bago and Tanintharyi Regions.
The CIDKP, along with organizations such as the Karen Office of Relief and Development (KORD), the Karen Women’s Organization (KWO), and KPSN, is providing displaced communities with essential aid, including food and other necessities.