TNLA, Burma Army Clashes In Namhsan Displace Over 100

By Naw Noreen / Democratic Voice of Burma (DVB) | August 9, 2017

Clashes between the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and the Tatmadaw erupted in Khay Khin and Man Wel villages, part of Namhsan Township, Shan State, on Tuesday morning, sending more than 100 locals fleeing to neighbouring Namtu Township.

Currently, the displaced are seeking refuge in Pote Bar Yone Parirati Shwe Kyin Monastery in the town of Namtu. The monastery continued to receive more civilians on Wednesday.

“Because of the ongoing clashes, people fled to Namtu. I saw that more than 100 people have fled to the town,” Mai Win Htoo, the Lower House MP representing Namhsan Township, told DVB on Wednesday morning. A DVB reporter visiting the monastery that is housing the displaced on Wednesday evening estimated that the number had swelled to more than 250.

The TNLA stated that seven different clashes took place between its troops and the Tatmadaw’s 77th Infantry Battalion on Tuesday morning. Fighting reportedly flared too in Myine and Kyauk Phyu villages, also in Namhsan Township.

On Friday, markets and schools were shuttered in Manton, a township located directly north of Namhsan and Namtu, due to fighting between TNLA and Tatmadaw forces.

In the aftermath of the recent hostilities, security checks are being conducted at the entry and exit points of Manton, making the movements of local people difficult.

One civilian was also reportedly killed in Kutkai Township, Shan State, on Saturday when an errant shell from one of the warring parties struck her home.