AA abducts junta police officers in Mrauk-U

By Admin 07 Nov 2023

DMG Newsroom
7 November 2023, Sittwe

Arakan Army (AA) personnel arrested junta police on patrol and seized their car at around 3 p.m. on Tuesday in Mrauk-U town, Arakan State, sources told DMG.

A source told DMG: “A vehicle on patrol was detained. Eyewitnesses said around seven [police] were detained. We don’t know exactly where they were taken.”

Following the detainment, junta troops at an outpost near Ngwe Taung Pauk Bridge and other regular outposts of Light Infantry Battalion No. 540 disappeared, according to Mrauk-U residents.

A Mrauk-U woman said: “Normally, there are junta soldiers and police in the town. But I don’t see them today [after the detentions]. I also don’t see soldiers at outposts.”

Mrauk-U’s streets were largely deserted following the incident and local residents have expressed concerns for their safety. 

“People are staying in their homes. Everyone is concerned that fighting may erupt,” said a Mrauk-U resident who did not want to be named.

DMG was unable to contact the Mrauk-U police force and Mrauk-U Township administrator for comment. DMG also could not reach AA spokesman Khaing Thukha for comment.

The Myanmar military and the AA in Arakan State observed an unofficial ceasefire in November of last year. The AA is, however, fighting alongside the Ta’ang National Liberation Army and Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army in an ongoing offensive against the regime in northern Shan State, seizing several junta outposts there. The AA’s involvement in the conflict in Shan State has added to fears that hostilities could also resume in Arakan State.