Amidst ongoing urban warfare in Loikaw Township, Karenni State, part of 'Operation 1111, has advised displaced residents not to return home, and resistance forces are pleading with them to endure the current hardships as IDPs, until it is safe to return.
For over two months since the commencement of 'Operation 1111,' Loikaw residents, compelled by intense clashes, have sought refuge in neighboring townships within Shan State. During brief lulls in the conflict, war-displaced individuals return to their homes, bringing utensils, belongings, and food, with some opting to resettle. Despite this, the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF) has emphatically urged Loikaw residents to abstain from such actions.
"We acknowledge that our military operations to capture towns are ongoing and present numerous challenges. Undertaking such ambitious endeavors involves various difficulties. Therefore we appeal to the people to endure the current hardships. The success of the revolution hinges on capturing towns and villages step by step. At this moment, we kindly request the people to refrain from returning”, a KNDF information official said.
The resistance forces reported that, at the height of 'Operation 1111,' the Military Council conducted intense shelling and airstrikes on downtown Loikaw and its surrounding areas, resulting in widespread destruction of houses due to fires. KNDF further noted that ongoing gun clashes continue to persist in Loikaw.
Colonel Phone Naing, the adjutant general of the Karenni Army (KA) told Kantarawaddy Times that despite the extension of the 'Operation 1111' term for 69 days on January 18th, KA remains steadfast in its commitment to fighting for the freedom of Karenni State and its people.
"I want to emphasize that we will keep fighting. The liberation of Karenni State and its people is the shared responsibility of all our joint resistance forces. I urge everyone to persist in the fight to eradicate the enemy”, he said.
The ongoing conflict stemming from the coup has led to the displacement of locals in Karenni State for nearly three years, and over time the evident increase in the needs of the displaced population is becoming more pronounced.
"Numerous houses stood deserted, falling prey to looters. Many others were destroyed by fire. While some residents temporarily returned for essential supplies, the looming risk of getting caught in gun clashes at any moment remains a serious concern. Considering Loikaw's current situation, it is convenient for retrieving belongings, but is unsuitable for permanent resettlement”, a Loikaw resident remarked.
The KNDF recognizes the ongoing progress of the revolution, attributing it to the crucial support of the people, and appeals to the public to sustain their backing until its ultimate success. According to the KNDF information officer, Karenni resistance forces have secured control of over half of Loikaw Township, although specific details were not disclosed.
"We have made profound sacrifices, bearing a heavy toll that encompasses both deaths and injuries. As people flee their homes, enduring considerable suffering, it's essential to underscore that all these sacrifices are the ultimate contributions of the Karenni people, driven by their responsibility to secure the long-term well-being of our beloved Karenni State”, Colonel Phone Naing said.
Some displaced individuals, who had fled their homes during 'Operation 1111,' faced fatalities or injuries as a consequence of Military Council shelling while temporarily returning to retrieve food.
