Over 10,000 displaced villagers face food shortages amid junta blockade in Saw Twsp

By Admin 15 Jun 2026

DMG Newsroom

15 June 2026, Saw, Magway Region

More than 10,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Magway Region's Yaw area are facing severe food shortages due to a military blockade imposed by the junta, local humanitarian workers said on Saturday.

The crisis affects residents displaced from 25 villages along key road corridors linking Saw Township, Laungshae, Kyaukhtu and Pauk, where ongoing military operations have disrupted transportation and supply routes.

According to aid workers, thousands of civilians have remained displaced for more than a month after junta troops launched operations in the area, leaving many families with dwindling food supplies.

"The military has established positions along major roads and restricted movement in the region," a humanitarian volunteer told DMG. "As displacement continues and the fighting drags on, food stocks have nearly run out in many communities."

Local sources said junta troops have reinforced positions in Saw town as well as the villages of Tabin and Kan Chaung, severely limiting the movement of people and goods.

Military operations in the Yaw region have intensified in recent weeks as the junta seeks to reinforce its campaigns in neighboring southern Chin State, forcing thousands of residents to flee their homes.

Many displaced families from Saw town and surrounding villages, including Tabin, Yay Shin, Yay Yin, Kan Chaung, Na Thoe and Kyauk Sit, are now sheltering in forests, mountains, monasteries and temporary camps.

"Some supplies are still reaching a few areas through alternative routes, but most displaced communities are facing serious shortages," another local volunteer said. "Rice supplies are running extremely low, and urgent assistance is needed."

Aid workers warned that food insecurity is worsening as access to humanitarian assistance remains limited.

Local observers said the junta has been using Saw town and Kangyi Village as logistical bases to support military operations toward Mindat and Kanpetlet townships in southern Chin State.

Residents and aid groups also reported increased security restrictions and arrests along transportation routes, further disrupting the movement of goods and civilians.

Humanitarian workers have appealed for emergency food assistance and additional support for displaced communities across the Yaw region.