Two fishing boats were set on fire and destroyed by Myanmar navy vessels near the northern tip of Mye Ngu Island (also known as San Taw Shin Island) in Wira Thani (Pauktaw) Township, according to local sources.

Locals reported that two junta navy vessels opened fire around 10:00 a.m. on September 16 while operating downstream from Kular Thein Village, near the island's northern tip.

"Two fishing boats were destroyed in the naval attack," a resident said. "The vessels belonged to Muslim fishermen from Sin Tet Maw Village. Rakhine fishing boats from Praine Taung Village were also fired upon, but they managed to escape undamaged."

As the warships fired toward villages such as Kular Thein and Soe Mae Gyi, terrified residents fled to nearby hills and forests for refuge.

"Around noon yesterday, the two navy vessels—previously anchored off the coast of Mye Ngu Island—steered close to the Soe Mae Gyi Village jetty," another resident told Narinjara. "They opened fire with both heavy artillery and small arms. Some boat crews and fishermen sank along with their motorized boats."

While most villagers fled away when they saw the vessels approaching, the fate of those on the targeted boats remains unknown. 

Another resident confirmed the assault at the jetty triggered widespread panic, forcing villagers to flee to surrounding areas.

"Shells were exploding right near the village," the resident added. "When they approached and opened fire while people were working on their boats, everyone panicked and ran."

Ground conditions remain difficult to verify due to widespread telecommunication and internet blackouts. 

However, reports indicate island residents are continuing to flee coastal villages in Pauktaw Township to escape persistent artillery shelling, airstrikes, and naval bombardment launched from military bases in Sittwe.