The families of junta forces from western command inAnn and Sittwe townships have been shifted to Naypyidaw, the capital ofMyanmar.

"The relocation tookplace on 17 and 18 January. I heard they were taken to Naypyidaw," said aresident of Ann locality.

But he admitted that he hasno details about the number of shifted families.

According to a recent military report, the campssituated at Yaw creek of Ann township faced an attack from the Arakan Army (AA)fighters. Subsequently the junta forces deserted the camp, and currently theyare being deployed in Kazukaing.

"Ann locality is full offorests & mountains. There's a common belief that the western command wouldbe more vulnerable to AA fighters compared to other towns due to its location,”added the resident.

The residents from variouswards and villages near the junta battalions in Ann locality have also beenrelocated. Many police stations, including that of Tat Taung town were alsowithdrawn some time back.

Also in Sittwe, there arereports that families of junta forces are being relocated on 18 and 19 January.

A businessman closelyassociated with the State military council informed Narinjara News that whenRakhine was peaceful the junta  families enjoyed their time in Sittwe.

“At the onset of conflicts,they promptly shifted their wives and children to Yangon or Naypyidaw. Theremaining military personnel are also facing risks in Sittwe,” added thebusinessman.