Junta prepares defence of Gwa, locals say

By Admin 02 Nov 2024

DMG Newsroom
2 November 2024, Gwa

Myanmar's military regime has prepared a defence at an entrance to Gwa Town, Arakan State, due to an ongoing offensive by the Arakkha Army (AA), according to military sources.

Since the end of October, the regime has been building fortifications along the road from Satthwar Village, about 13 miles from Gwa Town, and has been reinforcing it with a large number of military vehicles from neighbouring Ayeyarwady Region.

"The regime sent 1,000 junta soldiers in military trucks from Ayeyarwady Region on October 28 and 29. The regime is preparing a defence in Gwa," said a military source.

The regime has increased its military presence at the Gwa-based Light Infantry Battalion No. 562 and the No. 563 artillery regiment, and has planted landmines around these positions.

The AA's offensive has reached Taingkyo Village, about 17 miles from Gwa Town.

"As soon as the AA is able to enter Gwa, the town will fall to the ethnic armed group. The regime [intends to] not allow the AA to enter Gwa and is prepared to defend," said a military source.

The regime has also reportedly put Gwa-based Light Infantry Battalion Nos. 562 and 563 under the direct control of its Southwestern Command based in Pathein, Ayeyarwady Region. The two battalions were previously under the control of the Western Command in Ann Township, where the AA is also fighting the regime.

Fighting between the military and AA began in Gwa Township on August 8, and thousands of locals have been displaced by the fighting.