Army Reinforces Troops in Akyab with Rural Battalions

Akyab:  Despite the military authority's recent prohibition on assemblies of more than five people, a demonstration with an estimated 50,000 participants ended peacefully in Akyab without a disturbance by law enforcement.

A witness said, however, a number of soldiers were deployed at seven key places in Akyab, including government buildings, Lawkanada temple, and Akyi Tong Kong temple.

Over 100 soldiers have been deployed at Lawkanada temple since the early morning of 24 September. Other soldiers were deployed to six other key locations yesterday morning.

A monk confirmed that he saw five army trucks loaded with several soldiers driving to through the downtown area and crossing in front of the monastery at noon yesterday.

A source said the authority is preparing its forces by deploying them at important locations in order to crack down on demonstrators.

On Wednesday, over 100 soldiers from LIB 538 based in Rathidaung, 20 miles north of Akyab, were brought to Akyab to provide reinforcements.

A source close to the army said three Buthidaung based battalions, including LIB 552 and LIB 564, are now prepared to leave their bases for Akyab at any time.

A senior politician from Akyab said the army authority may crack down on demonstrations in Akyab after putting forces in position in Akyab.

Many townspeople are anxious over the recent deployments as they fear the army authority is preparing to crack down on the current demonstrations in Akyab with the use of military force.