ARSA and AA clash intensifies along the Arakan-Bangladesh border

By Admin 20 Sep 2025

DMG Newsroom    

20 September 2025, Maungdaw

Heavy clashes have erupted in recent days between the Muslim armed group ARSA and the Arakan Army (AA) near the northern part of Taung Pyo Letwae, Maungdaw Township, along the Bangladesh border.

The fighting reportedly began when ARSA (Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army) launched an assault on an AA border security outpost, triggering exchanges of fire with both heavy and light weapons that have since escalated into fierce battles.

A source from the border region said: “ARSA stormed a border security outpost with full strength, leading to intense clashes between the two sides. The AA has reinforced its troops and is conducting clearance operations in the area for border security. Fighting is still ongoing, and it’s difficult to give detailed accounts right now.”

Current fighting is taking place around Taung Pyo Letwae, Inn Chaung village to the north, Kyauk Lone, and nearby hills. Clashes have continued since September 16.

Reports indicate that ARSA has been attacking with considerable force, while the AA has reinforced its own units and launched counteroffensives.

A local source familiar with the situation added: “Kyauk Lone, on the Arakan side of the Bangladesh border, is where the heaviest clashes are happening. That area has illegal crossings dug by ARSA. There are also reportedly ARSA training schools nearby.”

Meanwhile, AA Commander-in-Chief Major General Twan Mrat Naing told The Irrawaddy in an interview that Muslim armed groups have been mounting attacks on AA outposts inside Maungdaw Township.

It is also reported that in recent days, some Bangladeshi military leaders met with commanders of Muslim armed groups and encouraged them to launch attacks around Taung Pyo and its northern surroundings.

Major General Twan Mrat Naing said in a separate interview with the Irrawaddy: “While our forces were engaged elsewhere, extremists were told by their backers, ‘You must attack. If you can’t attack Taung Pyo directly in the coming days, then at least strike targets north of Taung Pyo. Attack with whatever you have.’ Because of that, our camps came under siege starting last night, and clashes are still ongoing.”

The AA stressed that while it has been focusing on administration and stability in its controlled areas while fighting Myanmar’s junta, it is now encountering attacks from ARSA and RSO (Rohingya Solidarity Organisation) armed groups, reportedly supported by some Bangladeshi officials.

Currently, disruptions by ARSA and other Muslim armed groups have become a major challenge in northern border areas of Arakan State. Analysts say resolving this problem will require both AA efforts and cooperation from local Arakanese people.

A young Arakanese political observer said: “The situations in Maungdaw and Buthidaung are increasingly worrisome. Violence by Muslim armed groups is escalating day by day, creating one of the greatest challenges for border security forces. Resolving these threats will require the AA and local people to work together; otherwise, civilians will continue to suffer from extremist violence.”

According to the AA statement released on September 19, Muslim armed groups based in Bangladesh are infiltrating into Maungdaw and Buthidaung via the Naf River and the Mayu Mountains to carry out violent activities.

The AA further pledged to enhance border security operations to eliminate the threats posed by these armed groups.

Amid the unrest, local residents have been advised not to travel except in emergencies, and to inform AA troops in advance if they must move around in border areas.