The Arakan Army (AA) has launched multiple attacks on the coup regime’s military bases in Sittwe, the capital of Arakan State, in recent days. The junta has responded with heavy force, resulting in fierce clashes, according to military analysts in the region.

Since January 3, the AA has targeted military bases in Tawkan, Amyintkyun, Kankawkyun, and Theintan villages in Sittwe Township, employing artillery, small arms, and drones. The junta, in turn, has retaliated with heavy artillery shelling.

"There’s been heavy fighting on both sides in Sittwe Township lately. The AA hit some military posts near Tawkan and Amyintkyun villages, and because the junta suffered big losses, it is now hitting villages in Ponnagyun Township with artillery and drone strikes. Gunfights are still going on today (January 6)," said a military analyst.

The junta has also been shelling areas along the Sittwe–Ponnagyun township border, suspected of hiding AA troops. On January 6, the AA reportedly attacked a military base near Tawkan Village using small arms and drones.

Meanwhile, the junta has shelled Wabo and Minhla villages in Sittwe Township, as well as Sapahtar and Kuntaung villages in Ponnagyun Township, using both artillery and drones.

Residents of Sittwe have reported hearing artillery thuds and small arms fire, particularly after nightfall, since early January. Frequent gunfire has been reported near the Regional Military Operations Command, Police Battalion 12, and Let Way Thalone Taw Dhat Zedi Pagoda.

Another Sittwe resident familiar with the military situation said the junta has been reinforcing its positions after recent clashes.

"The junta has really beefed up its posts near Tawkan and Kankawkyun and is trying to hold onto them," the resident said.

Currently, the AA controls three townships bordering Sittwe—Ponnagyun, Pauktaw, and Rathedaung—and has effectively encircled Sittwe City.