The clashes that occurred between the Myanmar military and a combined force of KNU, KNLA and PDF (Karen National Union, Karen National Liberation Army and People’s Defence Force) in Kyainseikkyi Township, Kayin State, on June 2 killed four people including a monk and a child and wounded at least 15 others, according to local aid organizations.

Among the dead were a 10-year-old boy and a 44-year-old monk from Zetawun Monastery, said an official from an aid organization.  

“The injured were sent to the People’s Hospital in Mawlamyine. On the morning of June 3, two children, a mother and an elderly man were sent to the hospital. At least 15 civilians were wounded. We have learnt that there will be more wounded people,” the official added.

On the night of June 1 also, the combined force carried out drone attacks on the army’s units and battalions in Kyainseikkyi Township. On June 2 morning, fighting intensified and artillery shells fell into Ward No.6 in the township causing some civilian casualties, according to local sources.

“From morning to afternoon yesterday, we had head sounds of explosions. We even heard the sound of heaver weapons at night. Until night, we didn’t dare to go outside, said a local resident. 

The local sources said there was no more gunfire only on the morning of June 3.

On January 4 this year also, fighting broke out in Kyainseikkyi Township between the army and the combined force of KNU, KNLA and PDF, wounding at least four local villagers and forcing thousands of people to flee.