Myanmar nationals return home after fleeing to Mizoram amid Chin group clashes

Mizoram: Around 2,500 Myanmar nationals who sought temporary refuge in Mizoram's Champhai district due to intense fighting between two Chin armed groups have started returning home, officials confirmed on Saturday.

The displacement occurred following violent clashes between the Chinland Defence Force-Hualngoram (CDF-Hualngoram) and the Chin National Defence Force (CNDF) in Myanmar’s Chin State on July 5. According to reports, the CNDF launched an offensive around 8:30 am in the villages of Satawm, Lianhna, and Tuichirh, with heavy gunfire continuing until mid-afternoon. The group reportedly seized all eight camps of the CDF-Hualngoram, including their main base at Tuichirh.

In the wake of the violence, approximately 2,845 civilians from the border villages of Khawmawi and Rihkhawdar crossed into Zokhawthar, a village in Mizoram, from July 5 onward. Many of them joined family members already living there, while others were housed in local shelters and community halls, where civil society organisations provided basic aid and food.

Medical assistance was extended to several injured individuals. Five wounded CDF-Hualngoram fighters were brought to Zokhawthar, one of whom was later transferred to Champhai District Hospital with a gunshot wound to the face. Additionally, two CNDF fighters were reportedly treated in the village.

Lalmuanpuia Punte, political adviser to Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma, visited Zokhawthar on July 6 and crossed over into Chin State to engage with faction leaders in an attempt to mediate peace.

By July 13, most displaced persons had begun making their way back to Myanmar. The situation in the border region is being closely monitored, with authorities and local groups continuing to offer support where needed.