Civilian deaths are increasing due to junta shelling and airstrikes during the ongoing clashes in Thandwe Township, Arakan (Rakhine) State.

On July 19, artillery shells fired by the junta killed five civilians, including a pregnant woman, in Abae Village. Additionally, two locals lost their lives in Jeiktaw Village.

“That day, there was fighting in the Abae Mountain Range. The junta's Navy vessels shelled the combat zones from the sea, but they also hit civilian areas. Civilians died because the junta carried out indiscriminate shelling,” said a Thandwe resident.

Fighting between the Arakha Army (AA) and the junta in Thandwe began on April 13 and has now lasted for over three months. During this period, civilian casualties from the junta's shelling, airstrikes, and landmines have risen to nearly 160, according to research data obtained by DMG. However, the actual number may be higher.

“The junta, losing on many fronts, continues to fight the war unethically. Civilian areas are being targeted indiscriminately without any restraint. Because of the junta's actions, people have lost their basic human rights and are suffering greatly,” said a local human rights activist.

AA has now captured two Ngapali-based junta battalions and also controls Thandwe. AA continues its offensive to unconditionally neutralize the remaining junta forces in Thandwe.

In response, the junta is attempting to reinforce its troops to launch a counteroffensive, aiming to prevent Thandwe, which holds significant military and economic importance, from being completely lost.