Junta forces continue searching for AA camps, suspected locals in Taungup township

The junta forces have been searching for Arakan Army (AA) camps along with some local residents inclined to the AA in Taungup township of Rakhine State.

On 8 September, more than 20 junta soldiers arrived at Chaung Thon Kwa village and searched for Ko Myint Oo, said the residents.

"They came with weapons and looked at his farm hut. Later they went to the direction of Nat Thet Chaung creek,” said one villager.

The junta column entered into another farm hut and talked to the residents,  “Where are the AAs? Do you know the camp?" they questioned.

Residents reveal that there have been constant military council activities in their localities.

On 7 September, about 30 junta soldiers went to Latyar Stai village of Khu village-tract. Similarly, on 9 September, more than 30 soldiers roamed inside several villages. Next day, over 30 soldiers came in two cars and a caravan and camped at Nyaung Paok monastery.

An official of Taungup Youth Network informed that the army troops did patrolling and also conducted interrogation programs with the people on AA issues.

"The soldiers want to show their strength.They also prefer their domination in our aress,” he added.

Military presence and activities are observed in the townships of Rambree, Kyauk Phyu and Taungup. Till date, 6 youths have been arrested in Kyauk Phyu and Gwa townships suspecting their association with the AA.

Last July, the villagers witnessed reconnaissance searches by the junta forces with the help of drones in various locations for AA camps in Rathidaung, Buthedaung and Mrauk U townships.

AA has  more than 30,000 combat troops and it had reached an informal ceasefire with the military junta in November 2022. Currently several Rakhine rural areas are under its control.