AA chief tells civilians to brace for decisive battle in Arakan State

By Admin 10 Apr 2024

DMG Newsroom
10 April 2024, Sittwe

Arakan Army (AA) chief Twan Mrat Naing has urged residents in Arakan State to brace for the decisive battle in the state, in his message marking the 15th anniversary of the founding of the AA.

The AA chief also told the residents in Sittwe and Kyaukphyu to evacuate to safe places.

“I suggest that people trapped in areas controlled by the enemy such as Sittwe and Kyaukphyu should move to the liberated areas soon. Necessary preparations must be made for the final battle,” reads his message.

Residents are, however, unable to leave Sittwe and Kyaukphyu towns due to the junta’s blockade.

One Kyaukphyu resident said: “Many residents have fled the town because of the pending fighting. Our family is still trapped in the town because we still can’t find a way out.”

The regime has blockaded roads and waterways since renewed fighting broke out on November 13 last year, making it impossible for many residents to travel between towns.

Maj-Gen Twa Mrat Naing has urged AA troops to do whatever they can to protect the war-wrecked civilians in Arakan State, who are suffering as a result of junta’s indiscriminate attacks and blockade.

The regime is using all the wicked means to bring about the total destruction of Arakan State, said the AA chief.

One Arakanese politician said: “As the regime is losing ground in Arakan State, it will go to extremes to torment the Arakanese people. As the AA chief has made the warning personally, it is time civilians move to safe places.”

The AA has seized Pauktaw, Ponnagyun, Rathedaung, Kyauktaw, Mrauk-U, Minbya, Myebon and Ramree townships in Arakan State and Paletwa Township in neighbouring Chin State.

The ethnic armed group is also continuing an onslaught against junta positions in Buthidaung, Maungdaw towns at the border and Ann Township, where the military’s Western Command is based.