Myanmar Junta Accused of Looting and Airstrikes: An Escalation of Conflict

Myanmar Junta Accused of Looting and Airstrikes: An Escalation of Conflict

The Ongoing Crisis in Myanmar

Reports from resistance groups in Myanmar have alleged that junta troops are looting abandoned homes and shops in Kamma Township, located in the Magwe Region. This follows a series of attacks on these troops by sixteen resistant factions based in the Pakokku District on September 19. The targeted buildings were under the control of the regime, including a police station. The junta forces reportedly suffered substantial losses, leading them to launch airstrikes on Kamma town. This has resulted in the displacement of an estimated 2,000 residents.

Allegations of Looting by Junta Troops

Local residents have reported an ongoing presence of junta troops in the town. These troops have been accused of breaking into houses and shops to steal various items. The stolen items range from essential goods like rice and cooking oil to valuable possessions such as phones and jewelry. Additional reinforcements have reportedly arrived in the town to support these activities. The resistance groups have also reported an incident where a junta helicopter fired randomly into Kamma, injuring a resident.

Response from Resistance Groups

The resistance groups have retaliated by attacking the Light Infantry Division 101 reinforcements with drones. Convoys from Pakokku and Nyaung Jippin village, each carrying over 100 troops, were targeted. This led to numerous injuries among the junta forces, as claimed by the Pakokku People’s Defense Force (PDF). Despite these attacks, the junta troops remain isolated in the town, surrounded by resistance groups.

Continued Conflict and Fear Among Locals

On September 3, resistance groups attacked the Kamma police station and immigration office, resulting in the death of at least seven junta troops. In response, the junta forces deployed a Mi-35 helicopter and reinforcements from Pakokku. The ongoing conflict and the presence of junta troops have instilled fear among the local residents. They have expressed concern over the loss of their possessions and stated that they will not return to their homes until the junta troops leave the town.

International Implications and the Need for Resolution

The escalating conflict in Myanmar has severe international implications. The displacement of residents and allegations of looting by junta troops have raised humanitarian concerns. The international community has been called upon to intervene and help deescalate the situation. The need for a resolution is urgent to prevent further loss of life and displacement of residents. The ongoing conflict is a stark reminder of the power struggles that plague many nations and the dire consequences faced by ordinary citizens caught in the crossfire.