Karenni State— On November 13, the Karenni Peoples Interim Executive Council (IEC), declared that the number of all displaced individuals, due to the on-going conflict raging between Karenni State and the Shan-Karenni border, has now reached 35,000.
Khu Plu Reh, General Secretary of the Interim Executive Council (IEC), clarified with the Kantarawaddy Times that the IDP figures of 35,000 combined some who fled following the initiation of Operation 1111, while others had previously fled from their homes.
"The estimated figure indicates over 35,000 people that have fled the conflict in Pekon Township and Mobye Township, including the surrounding areas near Loikaw Township. The precise population count is currently being conducted by the relevant departments.
Since the initiation of Operation 1111, there has been a surge in the number of displaced persons, and this encompasses individuals who have been fleeing the conflict from the outset, now compelled to flee once again,” stated Khu Plu Reh.
On November 13, the chairman of the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF) called on the public to seek refuge in safer locations due to the ongoing town capture battles.
The chairman of the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF) underscored the need to dismantle the Military Council administration in Loikaw Township to bring about the overthrow of the dictatorship and establish self-determination in Karenni State. He pointed out that unfortunately the looming battle to capture the town, could result in significant destruction.
Local reports indicate that the Military Council troops have blocked the exit roads of Loikaw Township, and are engaging in shooting any individuals attempting to pass through. With residents stranded, rescue organizations are making efforts to assist and rescue as many people as possible.
A resident of Loikaw Township related, "We began our escape from the conflict on November 11. This marks the second time we've had to flee, and this experience has been more distressing and filled with hardship. In the past we could seek refuge in Demoso upon hearing gunshots, but this time we must navigate through the town, making it more perilous. I've heard about people being shot while leaving the town, which made me hesitant to flee. Currently I'm seeking refuge in areas where I believe artillery shells are less likely to fall. With a one-month-old baby in my care, my concerns are amplified from every direction. All I can do is offer prayers for safety," shared a resident of Loikaw Township".
Due to the substantial demand for emergency relief, the IEC has extended an invitation for people to join and contribute.
"The essential food items include rice, oil, and salt, along with the necessities of shelter and medicine. Moreover, there is an increased demand for transportation fuel," General Secretary Khu Plu Reh added.
The Military Council forces are incapable of conducting ground operations and are indiscriminately employing artillery and air attacks. This has resulted in numerous homes sustaining damage, and more than ten civilians have been killed by artillery shell explosions.
The Interim Executive Council (IEC) stated that the majority of the 35,000 individuals who fled the conflict are residents from wards such as Daw Oo Khu, Monpyar, Bardo, Htaynghahlar, Narnattaw, Htaythama, etc., in Loikaw Township. Furthermore, those affected include people from Chikei village tract, Dawpawkale village tract, Nwarlawoe village tract, Noekoe village tract near Loikaw Township, as well as some villages in Pekon Township and the surrounding area of Mobye urban area For those willing to assist with emergency relief efforts, please reach out to IEC through Signal at +66 63 687 0154, Viber and Telegram at +66 63 687 0154, or via email at Karenni-IEC2023@protonmail.
