The skirmishes that erupted on December 1, 2023, in Kawkareik, Kayin State, resulted in the destruction of over 200 houses due to uncontrolled attacks, exacerbated by the absence of firefighters, as reported by locals.

Both the Tatmadaw and combined forces of the KNU and PDF utilized heavy weaponry and drones during the clashes, contributing to the devastation.

Tragically, casualties among the local population occurred during the confrontations, with additional houses destroyed by explosions from heavy weaponry, according to eyewitnesses.

"In previous fire incidents, the presence of some residents allowed for limited containment efforts, mitigating the damage. However, as the conflict escalated and civilians evacuated, the fires ravaged unimpeded," explained a local.

On March 11, a fresh wave of destruction struck Ward No. 6 of Kawkareik, as more than 20 houses succumbed to flames. Meanwhile, fires continued to rage in Ward No. 4 on March 12, compounding the city's plight.

Locals attribute the fires to the deployment of heavy weaponry and drones by both the Tatmadaw and PDF forces, with no firefighting efforts underway to stem the spread. Accusations fly between the Tatmadaw and the combined KNU and PDF forces regarding the arson, further complicating the dire situation in Kawkareik.