In Kyaukphyu Township, one of the towns still under the Junta’s control in Rakhine State, clashes have not erupted yet, but both sides are making military preparations, making for a tense situation.
Currently the Junta controls only Kyaukphyu downtown, Maday Island—where China's development projects are located—and 12 surrounding villages within Kyaukphyu Township, while the rest of the area is under the control of the Arakha Army (AA).
"Major offensives to capture Junta bases in Kyaukphyu have not yet occurred. The Junta's control is limited to a 10-mile perimeter around the town, with further advancement blocked by AA”, a Kyaukphyu resident said.
In Kyaukphyu Township, the Junta's deployment comprises the Danyawaddy naval base, Taungmawgyi naval outpost, 32nd Police Battalion, 34th Infantry Battalion, and the 542nd and 543rd Light Infantry Battalions.
AA has positioned troops in close proximity to and blockaded the Danyawaddy naval base, Taungmawgyi naval outpost, and 32nd Police Battalion, escalating tensions and creating a potential for conflict between the two sides.
"Junta soldiers are still confined to their base, firing shots at AA positions. If they venture into areas controlled by the AA, a battle could erupt at any moment”, another local familiar with the military situation told DMG.
The Junta is intensifying security measures within the town while also bolstering defenses in Sittwe through waterway and air transportation.
The Chinese government is attempting to broker a ceasefire agreement in the conflict-ridden Rakhine State. However, AA stated, “ due to the reprehensible actions of the Junta, such an agreement is currently not feasible.”
AA has seized control of nine townships in Rakhine State, along with Paletwa Township in Chin State, and intends to continue capturing other Rakhine State townships still under Junta control.
At present, intense fighting is underway in Maungdaw, Ann, and Thandwe. The focus now lies on how AA plans to seize control of Sittwe, the capital of Rakhine State, and other townships including Kyaukphyu.
The AA Army has along with the Three Brotherhood Alliance assured China, that whatever happens in the coming months or years, Chinese investments with be protected.
