The Tatmadaw and the Arakan Army locked horns times in three townships in Arakan State and one township in Chin State on 19 July, Martyr’s Day, according to the AA’s spokesperson Khaing Thukha.

The clashes occurred in Myebon, Ann and Buthidaung Townships in Arakan State and Paletwa Township in Chin State.

“Today, a skirmish broke out in Myebon Township. Yesterday, there was a clash near Mae Than Gyo village in Ann Township. As far as I know, armed conflicts occurred in four townships so far. I am not aware of all the details,” Khaing Thukha said.

The AA troop attacked two vessels from the Navy near Pauk Tu Taung village in Myebon Township, the AA’s spokesperson said. The naval ship carried soldiers to reinforce the Myanmar Army’s troop fighting near Mae Than Gyo village.

“We fired RPGs at the naval ships that carried more soldiers to reinforce its military presence in the battle affected area. Artillery shells landed in villages when the Navy’s vessel opened fire guns and heavy weapons,” Khaing Thukha said.  

The DMG tried many times to contact Colonel Win Zaw Oo from the Western Command and Brig-Gen Zaw Min Tun and Maj-Gen Tun Tun Nyi from the Tatmadaw True News Information Team for comment, but they could not be reached.