Earlier this month in northern Shan state more than 100 villagers fled their homes from Loi Lawm, Ka Li, Loi Hem and Nam Gut state in the Mongkoe area of Muse Township. They left after heavy fighting took place near Loi Hem on June 16.
Most have taken refuge in Wing Seng village, according to Mang Ying, a volunteer assisting with relief efforts.
Government troops allegedly summarily executed Zahkung Lum Awng, a Kachin civilian from Nong Hem village on June 14, according to a friend of the victim's family. Before being murdered Zahkung Lum Awng reportedly was forced to work as a guide for the army.
Kachin villagers in Mongkoe region reported that government forces in the area consider all civilians as part of the KIA therefore they should be treated as the enemy. The area under KIA 4th brigade is home to KIA battalions 36 and 38. Mungshawa Hpyen Hpung, a Kachin civilian militia affiliated with the KIA, also operates in the area.
