Myanmar military braces for anticipated AA offensive in Manaung

By Admin 16 Jul 2024

DMG Newsroom
16 July 2024, Manaung

Myanmar’s military regime is reinforcing its troops and stockpiling food supplies in Manaung Town after both battalions in Thandwe Township fell to the Arakkha Army (AA) in recent days, according to Manaung residents.

The regime is using Manaung Airport to airlift troops and supplies to a naval base 10 miles south of the town, said residents. It has deployed more warships near Kha Ohn Maw Village and in the waters surrounding the island township.

“Fighting has not yet taken place [in Manaung], but the regime is making preparations to defend it. Residents do not feel safe. The regime does not allow people to leave the town,” said a Manaung resident.

The regime has bolstered its positions at Manaung Airport and the town hall, and has deployed more junta soldiers to junta checkpoints at town entrances.

The regime suspended operating Yangon-Manaung-Sittwe-Kyaukphyu flights after its 2021 coup. It has made repairs to the Manaung Airport after the AA launched an offensive in southern Arakan State, and has since been using the airport for military purposes.

“The regime may use Manaung Airport to bring in reinforcements if clashes intensify in Kyaukphyu and Taungup,” said a political and military analyst, referring to the neighbouring townships in southern Arakan State.

Meanwhile, food supplies are running short in Manaung Township due to junta travel restrictions.

Only two townships — Manaung and Gwa — have not yet experienced fighting in Arakan State. Manaung residents are concerned that the first fighting in the township may soon occur.

The AA is currently focussing its offensive manoeuvres on seizing Maungdaw and Thandwe towns in Arakan State’s north and south respectively, and has also surrounded junta battalion headquarters in Ann, Taungup and Kyaukphyu townships.