By Ra Wai / MPA
Over 1,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Tabayin Township, Sagaing Region, remain unable to return to their homes and are in desperate need of humanitarian assistance.
According to the Tabayin Township IDP Relief Group, after PDF allied forces attacked and took over Depayin town on Aug 18, the military junta reoccupied the area later that afternoon with significant reinforcements. Since then, some local residents and war-displaced civilians from nearby Shwebo Township have been unable to return home.
A member of the relief group told MPA, “We are providing aid to those who fled their homes due to the heavy presence of Pyu Saw Htee militia and junta-affiliated forces. However, our area hasn’t seen many emergency IDPs fleeing from clashes or airstrikes.”
The relief worker stated that due to the financial decline, they could no longer provide the level of support they previously offered. Hence, displaced persons are trying to sustain themselves through whatever work they can find.
The source explained, “When the operation to seize the town began, people fled in a hurry. At that time, we were able to help them. Now, with limited resources and as they try to sustain their lives, their needs remain significant.”
As winter sets in, IDPs are increasingly suffering from illnesses like colds, coughs, influenza, and dengue fever. The relief worker also highlighted a shortage of blankets and warm clothing.
“Even ordinary civilians living in their homes struggle with inadequate medical supplies. For IDPs, the situation is even more challenging—they rely on health practitioners in nearby villages, and when that isn’t sufficient, they turn to larger clinics. However, these services aren’t entirely free; they have to contribute whatever they can afford,” the source explained.
Although some war-displaced residents have gradually returned to Tabayin town following the battle, many remain displaced to date.
During the operation to capture Tabayin, 18 military junta personnel were reportedly killed, while four PDF fighters lost their lives.
According to reports from the No. 1 Military Region, the PDFs rescued 40 non-CDM staff, 20 prisoners, 72 civilians, and two defecting Pyu Saw Htee militia members who surrendered under a white flag following the takeover. Additionally, a large cache of weapons and ammunition was seized.