More than 600 IDPs that were sheltering in Nant Salin monastery in Kyaukme, northern Shan State returned to their homes on February 18 with only 439 IDPS remaining across three camps, according to those that had been helping the IDPs.

"They have gone back for harvest season despite fear of their lives. They are still in constant fear and but they have to come and go like this. We desire stability for the region. Now is the time for harvesting corn in villages," said an IDP from Kyaukme.

At present, there are IDPs from Panlot village sheltering at the Aung Su Pan monastery in Kyaukme, Township, IDPs from Khaung Woelyun village sheltering at the Dhamma Maydini Shwe Kyin monastery, and IDPs in Nant Salin monastery - totaling 439 at three camps. 

In Namtu, locals fled their homes on February 13 due to recent clashes and 68 people are sheltering at the Pobbayon monastery in Namtu. AS there were clashes between ethnic armed forces, locals have to fee from their homes since first week of January 2019.

In Thibaw Township, there are three IDP camps in which 700 IDPs still remain, according to MP Sai Kham Aung of Thibaw Township. Another IDP camp, Yaypy camp, appeared in Thibaw as there are more clashes in the region. In Yaypu camp, there are 146 IDPs sheltering there.