Commander-in-Chief of the Arakan Army (AA), Major General Twan Mrat Naing, calls on the local population to brace for potentially the decisive conflict in Rakhine State.

In a message to the public on April 10, the 15th anniversary of the formation of the  AA, Major General Twan Mrat Naing advised residents, particularly those in Junta-controlled areas like Sittwe and Kyaukphyu, to evacuate as a precautionary measure.

"I suggest that local people stuck in regions still under enemy control, like Sittwe and Kyaukphyu, should find any available way to relocate to liberated zones. We all need to make every effort to get ready for the final decisive battle”, he emphasized in the message.

However owing to the Junta's stringent blockade, inhabitants in these two townships encounter significant hurdles in escaping to safety.

"Most folks have left town, hearing about potential fighting in Kyaukphyu. But my family is still stuck here, unable to get out”, a Kyaukphyu resident told DMG.

Since fighting resurfaced in Rakhine State on November 13, the Junta has imposed strict controls on land routes and waterways, making it hard for locals to move around, leaving many trapped in Kyaukphyu and Sittwe.

The Commander-in-Chief also called upon his AA troops to provide utmost assistance to the suffering Rakhine people under the Junta's repression and blockades.

He further accused the Junta of launching attacks across the entire Rakhine region, employing inhumane methods aimed at total destruction.

"The Junta keeps losing ground and might resort to unfair tactics, which will hurt the Rakhine people. With the AA Commander-in-Chief's serious warning, it is crucial for everyone to evacuate as soon as they can”, a Rakhine politician said.

As of now, AA has seized control of nine townships and is launching ongoing offensives aimed at Buthidaung, Maungdaw, and Ann Township, where the Western Regional Command Headquarters is situated.