(Reuters) – The Myanmar military launched artillery and air strikes against rebel forces east of the country, according to witnesses and local media. This led to thousands fleeing.

Two days later, bombardments took place in Nan Mei Khon village of Kayah. It is bordering Thailand and soldiers there have faced resistance for months from the Karenni National Defence Forces. (KNDF), which is one of many militia groups who are challenging the ruling junta.

On Thursday, the Myanmar military council couldn’t be reached by telephone. The fighting has not been mentioned in state media.

Free Burma Rangers is a relief group operating in this area. They shared footage from the previous day of fire in the village and the sounds of artillery explosions nearby.

On the 24th of February 2022, we will be bombing again. This area also sees mortar attacks and infantry attack. David Eubank, the founder of this group, sent a message texting that he said, “Thousands fled again.”

Eubank reported that two people died and three others were injured on Wednesday. Three people were reported to have been killed by the jet in an attack on a village near Myanmar, according to Myanmar Now.

KNDF representatives were unable to verify reports of casualties, but they said that heavy fighting has been taking place since Wednesday. Reuters couldn’t independently verify this information.

Myanmar’s military was in power for over five decades, until 2011. It is now struggling to hold onto its position as protests continue to erupt across the country. There are also armed conflicts on multiple fronts, and Sanctions imposed last year to punish generals who overthrew an elected government.

According to UN humanitarian agency, at least 90,000. People have been forced from their homes by the fighting in Kayah State.

Human rights groups accuse the military of using excessive force against civilians. According to the military, it’s fighting terrorists.

A rescue worker who did not want to identify himself for safety reasons told Reuters heavy bombardment was preventing civilians from reaching relief camps.

The rescue worker stated that “Thousands are trapped”.

We weren’t able get them out yet… They are attacking people from air, land and heavy weapons.