18 May 2026 – The Saw Township People’s Defence Team issued an emergency warning urging the public to avoid travelling along the Laung Shey–Saw–Kyaukhtu road section in Magway Region except in cases of medical emergencies, citing ongoing military operations by SSPC forces in Saw township.
According to a statement issued yesterday, SSPC troops are carrying out large-scale military movements in the area. The group alleged that troops operating along the route have arrested civilians, used local residents as human shields, and destroyed civilian-owned property.
The group urged residents to avoid areas where SSPC military columns are active and to relocate to safer areas as quickly as possible. It also stated that anyone who must travel along the road due to unavoidable circumstances should first contact the relevant local resistance forces and travel only after receiving permission.
In addition, the group advised residents to stay as far away as possible from SSPC troops if they encounter military columns.
Residents were also warned to remain inside strong bomb shelters to protect themselves from possible artillery attacks by the military. – Reporting by Ben
