By Kantarawaddy Times
During the military coup period, a total of 52 religious buildings were damaged in Karenni State and the Shan-Karenni border areas, mostly due to heavy artillery strikes, according to a representative from the Progressive Karenni People Force (PKPF).
The damaged religious structures were reportedly caused by heavy artillery, airstrikes, and arson.
“The main reasons for the destruction are primarily due to heavy artillery strikes, damage caused by airstrikes and bombings, and arson by the military council. These three factors are the key causes of the damage we’ve observed,” said a PKPF official to Kantarawaddy Times.
From February 1, 2021, when the military coup began, to October 31, 2024, a total of 52 religious buildings were destroyed. This includes 16 in Dee Maw Hso Township, 15 in Pekon Township, 9 in Loikaw Township, 5 in Pruso Township, 3 in Parsaung and Mese Townships, and 1 in Bawlake Township. Among these, 20 buildings were destroyed in 2022 alone, marking the highest number in a single year.
Among the damaged religious buildings, Catholic Christian churches accounted for the highest number at 24, followed by 17 Buddhist structures, 10 Baptist Christian churches, and 1 mosque, according to PKPF’s records.
In addition to religious buildings, the reported destruction includes 2,769 houses, 18 hospitals or clinics, and 26 schools.
