Due to ongoing armed clashes in Kawkareik Township, Kayin State, a growing number of displaced civilians have sought refuge in Mon State’s Mawlamyine, Chaungzon (Bilugyun), and other nearby areas, according to relief workers assisting war-displaced people.

The fighting, which began on April 14 (during the Myanmar New Year’s Maha Thingyan festival) and continued until April 20, involves daily heavy clashes between the Myanmar military and the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA)-led armed groups.

As a result, residents from at least 10 villages—including Kamni, Thayettaw, and Yepu—have fled, with thousands now displaced. Many from Kawkareik and Kyondoe towns have also evacuated to safer areas, a relief worker told local media.

"People from Kamni and Thayettaw are sheltering in places like Kawbein and Min Ywar, while others have taken refuge in monasteries in Mawlamyine and Bilugyun. Many have also fled to nearby towns where they have relatives," the aid worker added.

With food shortages emerging and medical supplies running low, concerns are growing that the humanitarian crisis could worsen if the fighting continues.

Although clashes slightly subsided on April 21 and 22, tensions remain high, and renewed heavy fighting could erupt at any moment, according to local sources.

So far, around 20 civilians, including monks, have been killed in the fighting, while at least 22 others are being treated for injuries at Mawlamyine Peoples Hospital. Relief efforts are ongoing as the number of displaced people continues to rise.