Tense scenes continue to unfold in Myanmar, as civilians and rebel gangs take on the military

Fighting that occurred in the small town of Thantlang in Chin State has forced thousands of residents to flee, after buildings were set ablaze amid the fighting.

Reports suggest that fighting between militia forces opposed to military rule and the army ignited tensions in the town.

Approximately 10,000 people normally live in Thantlang however local media reports state that most had left to seek shelter in surrounding areas including some in India.

Myanmar has been in turmoil since a government led by pro-democracy veteran Aung San Suu Kyi was toppled on February 1.

The rule of military power continues to spark nationwide anger, strikes, protests, and the emergence of anti-junta militia

In a seperate incident, during fighting between militia forces and the army last weekend, about 20 homes were set ablaze, with photographs on social media showing buildings engulfed in flames.

According to local media, soldiers shot dead a Christian pastor who tried to extinguish a blaze, although state-run media disputed those claims.

The Global New Light of Myanmar said the death of the pastor was being investigated and that soldiers had been ambushed by about 100 “terrorists” and both sides exchanged fire.