Mizzima
Sources close to the Arakan Army (AA) have indicated that Minbya, Kyauktaw, and Mrauk-U towns, situated in northern Rakhine State, are now under the territorial control of the AA.
The strategic significance of these towns, located along the Sittwe-Yangon Highway, has facilitated the AA’s assertion of control over the region, according to a source within Rakhine State.
“On 6 February, the AA fully Controlled Minbya. Additionally, in Mrauk-U, three battalions were reportedly seized on 7 February, with only Police Battalion (31) remaining to be captured. Similarly, the AA has taken control Kyauktaw town on 7 February,” said a source from Rakhine State.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in restrictions imposed by the AA on local civilians entering these controlled towns. This restriction is attributed to the AA’s operations for area clearance and mine clearance, as well as concerns about potential airstrikes by the military junta aimed at preventing civilian casualties, as reported by Kyauktaw resident.
A resident of Minbya said, “the Arakan Army’s (AA) prohibition on civilian entry into their controlled towns is to avoid the potential airstrikes by the military junta and landmines. Also, Ramree town remains outside the AA’s control.”
U Phe Than, a Rakhine politician, underscored the strategic significance of Minbya, Kyauktaw, and Mrauk-U towns, all situated along the Yangon-Sittwe Highway and adjacent to each other. He commented on the AA’s territorial gains, suggesting that the entire route from Paletwa town in Chin State to Minbya town in Rakhine State has effectively opened up. He also noted the apparent weakening of the military junta, with troops reportedly surrendering to the AA and seeking refuge in neighboring countries.
“If this trend continues, the AA could potentially assert control over Northern and Central Rakhine State before the onset of the rainy season,” said U Phe Than.
Efforts to gather insights from the AA spokesperson, Khaing Thukha, regarding the current situation were unsuccessful as he was reportedly occupied at the time of contact.
Currently, the Arakan Army (AA) has asserted control over the Paletwa area, situated at the border of Chin and Rakhine states, since 14 January of this year. Furthermore, the AA has declared the full capture of Pauktaw Town on 24 January, following heavy airstrikes and bombardments.
The ongoing conflict between the Arakan Army (AA) and military regime forces has escalated over the past 90 days across various areas of Rakhine State. Residents report continued clashes between the AA and military troops in Maungdaw Town, Ramree Town, and Rathedaung Town.
