Fighting broke out between the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and Light Infantry Battalion (LIB 556) near Ywa Thit village in the south of Kawkareik Township, Karen State on October 12, a resident told Mizzima.

"Now, I hear firing once in a while. Fighting has been breaking out since this morning. I have not even finished eating because I am fleeing,” said a local villager.

Mizzima is still inquiring about the number of casualties on both sides.