The Tatmadaw (Defence Services) said that they would not negotiate with any terrorist organization in response to a statement issued by Arakan Army (AA).

The Tatmadaw was responding to statement issued by AA on November 11 which called for the exchange of military prisoners.

Tatmadaw True News Information Team secretary Brig. Gen. Zaw Min Tun told Mizzima, “No military in the world has negotiated issues related to those who taken by a terrorist organization. There is no way to do so.”

The AA issued statement which says they have detained 16 prisoners related to the military.

AA Information chief Khaing Thu Kha said, “If the government and military do not agree the exchange of prisoners, we shall do like them.”

He added that exchange of prisoners can only be done between two warring states and only for Prisoners of War (POWs) surrendered in battle.

Moreover, he also objected to the use of the term Prisoners of War by AA referring to the arrest of 16 people related to the military.

He also said that Tatmadaw arrested some people for questioning and action was taken only in accordance with law by prosecuting them at trial courts and they respected the verdicts of the courts.