Manaung seen as ‘last bastion’ for beleaguered regime amid military buildup

By Admin 25 Sep 2024

DMG Newsroom
25 September 2024, Manaung

The Myanmar regime, which is increasingly facing the prospect of total defeat in its war on the Arakan front, is preparing military plans on Manaung Island in southern Arakan State.

The junta is reportedly strengthening its defences on the island, expanding the deployment of warships and erecting fences in military areas to prepare it as a potential last stronghold amid significant territorial losses over recent months.

The military has extended an existing fence at the Myaw Daw Oo naval base and residents said that while there were previously only three warships stationed at the naval base, the number of warships has increased to seven.

Sources say the regime has increased its military presence on Manaung Island after the fall of the Maung Shwe Lay naval base in neighbouring Thandwe Township.

“Myanmar Navy ships that retreated from the Maung Shwe Lay naval base have been deployed here. The regime has sent reinforcements to Manaung Island,” said a source.

Starting last month, junta soldiers who retreated from townships in northern Arakan State seized by the Arakkha Army (AA) have been sent to Manaung Island via Myanmar Navy warships.

Given its geographic isolation from mainland Arakan State, Manaung Island has advantages for the regime that could allow it to mount a formidable last stand, according to military and political analysts.

“The AA has the disadvantage [of being unable] to launch an attack on Manaung Island by land. If the AA attacked Manaung Island by sea, the regime would have the upper hand and block it, so it could become the last bastion,” said U Pe Than, a military and political analyst, and former Arakan State lawmaker.

If fighting between the military and AA breaks out in Manaung, the situation will likely prove perilous for islanders. Residents are having trouble moving to safer locales and fear being trapped by fighting between the two sides.

“In terms of preparations, we can’t do anything except buy food. Since Manaung is an isolated island, I am worried that the locals will suffer more if fighting erupts in Manaung,” said a local woman.

Junta travel restrictions have exacerbated food and healthcare challenges for residents of Manaung Island.

Since launching an offensive in November, the AA has seized Pauktaw, Kyauktaw, Ponnagyun, Mrauk-U, Minbya, Myebon, Rathedaung, Buthidaung, Ramree townships in Arakan State, as well as Paletwa Township in neighbouring Chin State.

Clashes between the military and AA have been reported in Gwa Township and Sittwe, while Ann, Kyaukphyu and Taungup have been surrounded by the ethnic armed group.