Sounds of heavy weapons fire raise anxiety levels in Sittwe

By Admin 21 Nov 2023

DMG Newsroom
21 November 2023, Sittwe

The sounds of heavy weapon fire were heard in the Arakan State capital Sittwe at about 3 p.m. on Tuesday, according to residents.

At least five heavy weapon shots were heard from No. 12 police security branch near Sat Yoe Kya Bridge and Shwe Min Gan Ward, locals said. 

“I heard loud sounds of heavy weapon fire. My home was shaken. I don’t know exactly where the heavy weapons were fired,” said a local woman from Ywargyi Mrauk Ward.

The junta has expanded military camps and tightened security checks on local people since renewed fighting between the military and Arakan Army (AA) on November 13.

“I was startled when I heard the sounds of weapons. I took my child from school in fear that there was fighting. I don’t know what will happen and feel scared,” said a local woman from Sittwe’s Sat Yoe Kya Ward.

Concerns have been raised by locals in Sittwe following reports of heavy weapon fire, with some closing groceries and military trucks patrolling in the city. Some residents in Sittwe are reportedly fleeing to locations they deem safer.

“Two military trucks have entered Sittwe just now,” said a grocery owner in Sittwe. “Some people closed their shops in downtown Sittwe. All the people are in an uproar.”