This is one of my stories of ethnic people in Burma (Myanmar) in 2006, who are facing constant attack by government troops in their own region. I got contact with back-pack medic group operating along the border helping the local people on the run and in hiding.
I would like to thank David Eubank and Ko Myayk (Mr. Monkey, not his real name) for answering my call, telling what they witness, in the jungle and beyond. ---------------------------------- Khin May Zaw//
(This story is originally aired in Burmese language and published in English at Radio Free Asia in December 2006.)
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Burmese Army Attacks Drive Karen Villagers Into Jungle (by Khin May Zaw)
2006-12-05
Aug. 28, 2006: Karen refugees wait for transport during relocation from a
refugee camp in Suang Phung, Ratchaburi province, Thailand. Photo:
AFP/Pornchai Kittiwongsakul
BANGKOK—Burmese army attacks in the eastern Karen ethnic region have
displaced thousands, driving some to camps near the Thai border and
leaving others hiding in the jungle without adequate food, aid workers
and Karen people have told RFA’s Burmese service.
Speaking by satellite phone with RFA’s Burmese service, a Karen villager
now in hiding said, “They destroy our farms, eat our rice, shoot us,
and kill us.”
Pho Chitho, driven from his farm by army attacks, said he is now living
in the jungle with his five children and about 5,000 others from his
village and neighboring villages in the Mone township of Nyaunglebin
District.
