As fighting escalates in the town of Loikaw, Kayah State, local residents are fleeing to safer towns, according to local sources.

War refugees from Loikaw were arriving in Taunggyi, Shan State, on the evening of January 9. Some are now staying at the homes of their friends or relatives, some at hurriedly rented places and some at monasteries.

Those fleeing clashes were reportedly arriving in Taunggyi till late last night with the help of members of the state and township Red Cross societies and aid organization.

Refugees from Loikaw are also fleeing to other nearby towns such as Hsisai, Nyaungshwe, Pinlaung, Pindaya and Aungban.

Local people reported that as fighting intensified in Kayah State on January 9, local people were fleeing. As they fled in cars on Loikaw-Hsisai-Taunggyi Road, they had to raise white flags for fear of gunfire.

Moreover, those who remain in Loikaw are reportedly in need of help.