SHAN STATE – In Mongngaw, a town between Nhamsan which was recently captured by TNLA and Kyaukme in northern Shan State, the citizens absconded to safety in fear that battle would break out and the junta council would target the town with air strikes.
Mongngaw, part of Kyaukme Township, was reportedly deserted on December 19 after the citizens were concerned that battles would spread there following the increased fighting in Nhamsan and Kyaukme. It is said that department staff ran away as well and fire trucks were left in the monastery compound.
“Many have ran away from Mongngaw in fear of battles. Fire trucks were moved to the monastery compound to avoid being damaged. Mongngaw is close to both Nhamsan and Kyaukme. It is right between the two,” said a local resident.
In addition, as the junta council has been continuously sending reinforcement into Kyaukme Township with helicopters to replenish its troops and arsenal, the local civilians are said to be afraid that the clashes would be intense when battles break out.