Arakan State tops tally of clashes in September

By Admin 12 Nov 2024

DMG Newsroom
12 November 2024, Mrauk-U

Among the hot spots for fighting in Myanmar’s nationwide civil war, Arakan State recorded the largest number of clashes in September.

According to Burma News International (BNI), there were a total of 73 clashes across the country in September, 23 of which took place in Arakan State.

The number of clashes increased as the Arakkha Army (AA) intensified offensives in Maungdaw, Ann and Gwa townships.

A total of 139 civilians were killed and 57,000 people were displaced from their homes by the junta’s indiscriminate air and artillery attacks, according to the BNI report.

One political and military observer in Arakan State said: “There are two reasons. AA chief Major General Twan Mrat Naing plans to seize the entire Arakan State by mid-2025. So, the group has launched continuous attacks. The regime is also defending the remaining towns using the army, navy and air force. Fighting has further intensified as a result.”

Observers predict more fierce fighting early next year as the AA is expected to further intensify its attacks in Ann, Taungup and Gwa.

Meanwhile, fighting has significantly de-escalated in northern Shan State. There were 17 clashes between the regime and the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) in September, and the number declined to seven in October. The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) has also halted offensives.

“The offensives by the MNDAA and TNLA have ebbed due to pressure from China. China has also cut off supplies to them. The AA is pushing ahead with its objectives in Arakan State. All three groups are under pressure. However, their military objectives will not be derailed,” said a political observer.

The Three Brotherhood Alliance — consisting of the AA, TNLA and MNDAA — has seized hundreds of junta bases and around 40 towns since launching “Operation 1027” in northern Shan State in October of last year.