The military junta has extended a ban on fishing inKyaukphyu township of Rakhine (Arakan) State for two more months, causing hardship forthe Rakhine people who depend on the sea for their livelihood.

The junta's ban includes Kyaukphyu along with the villagesadjacent to the sea and rivers.

The fishing is prohibited in Leik Kha Maw village-tract,Gone Chwein village-tract, Nat Kyauk beach, Seik island, Sasana 2500 beach,Zedi ward, Ah Soe Ya ward, Tan Pan Chaung ward, Myit Nar Tan ward, Kular PikeSeik ward, Pyin Phyu Maw district, Ka Nyin Taw district, Nga La Pwayt district,Ohn Chaung creek, Saing Chone village-tract, Aung Zedi village, Kat Tha Pyayvillage-tract, Kandi village-tract, coastal areas bordering the town andThanzit river along with water areas and boundaries.

The local residents are prohibited from travelling or fishing by manual boatsor  motorboats, and bypassing or docking manual boats, motorboats(large/small) or long-distance fishing boats, said a junta statement.

It underscored that people must adhere to the prohibition order withoutviolations and warned that strict actions will be taken in accordance with theexisting laws in case of violations.

The order is valid from the date of publication till 19April next. It was issued by the Kyaukphyu township administrator on 20February.

Since the Arakan Army (AA) launched its attack on 13November 2023, the junta has been facing defeats in many battles. Now they haveprohibited the fishing activities in the township to create troubles for thelocal fishermen.