Khaing Lu Hla (Roma Mray) — Locals reported renewed heavy and small arms fire today on the outskirts of Sittwe, the capital of Rakhine State, following several days of relative quiet.

The sounds of combat are stemming from clashes between the Arakan Army (AA) and the junta army in surrounding areas.

“There is fighting between the Arakan Army and the junta army. We have been hearing heavy and small arms fire continuously since this morning. We can see military vehicles in the city and near Shwe Min Gang,” said a Sittwe resident.

Shwe Min Gang, located on the outskirts of the city, houses a navy base and several military outposts. The resident added that junta bases in Sittwe and naval vessels at sea have resumed firing heavy weapons.

The renewed clashes follow intensified reinforcement by the junta authority at the Shwe Min Gang Navy base, as well as at Ye Yo Pyin, Tow Kan, Chaung Nwe, Zaw Ma Taek, Ka Kin, and other frontline positions.

Another source confirmed that small arms fire was audible, indicating clashes primarily near villages such as Ye Yo Pyin, Ywa Bo, and Tow Kan. Although fighting is ongoing, the full extent of the casualties or damage is currently unknown.

The Burmese military has been conducting frequent reconnaissance with drones and launching airstrikes and artillery strikes on villages bordering Sittwe and Ponna Kyunt townships, often engaging in exchanges of fire with the AA in these areas