AA seizes two junta battalions in Buthidaung Twsp: source

By Admin 14 May 2024

DMG Newsroom
14 May 2024, Buthidaung

The Arakkha Army (AA) seized the military’s Light Infantry Battalion Nos. 345 and 352 near Tatminchaung Village, part of Arakan State’s Buthidaung Township, on Monday, according to a ground source.

“The AA took complete control of the military’s two regiments yesterday. Some junta soldiers managed to flee, but some were captured. Junta jet fighters dropped bombs on the AA positions during the fighting,” a ground source told DMG.

Clashes between the military and AA are currently intensifying in Buthidaung, said a local resident.

“Fierce clashes erupted near the military’s LIB Nos. 353 and 535 today and junta jet fighters dropped bombs. There are a few military regiments in Buthidaung,” the resident added.

The AA has thus far seized the 15th Military Operations Command and Light Infantry Battalion Nos. 551, 552, 564, 565, 511, 345 and 352 in Buthidaung Township.

DMG’s calls to U Khaing Thukha, spokesman for the AA, and Maj-Gen Zaw Min Tun, spokesperson for the Myanmar junta, went unanswered.

Buthidaung Township is home to the 15th Military Operations Command and eight light infantry battalions — 345, 352, 353, 535, 551, 552, 564, and 565 — as well as three infantry battalions — 233, 234 and 263 — and artillery battalion 378.

The AA is using artillery and drones to attack junta battalions there, and the regime is using artillery and warplanes to defend against the AA onslaught.

The AA has imposed a 7 p.m.-6 a.m. curfew in Buthidaung and Maungdaw townships, effective as of April 26.

The regime and the AA have also been fighting fiercely in Ann and Thandwe townships. Since launching its offensive in November, the AA has seized Pauktaw, Rathedaung, Ponnagyun, Kyauktaw, Mrauk-U, Minbya, Myebon and Ramree townships in Arakan State, and Paletwa Township in neighbouring Chin State.