Villages engulfed in flames, bridges damaged in Ponnagyun after junta’s airstrikes

The military junta has launched airstrikes on several villages under Ponnagyun township of Rakhine State resulting in fire  breaking out in many places that damaged many  bridges too.

A Ponnagyun resident informed Narinjara News that fire engulfed Min Kan and Tan Swel villages following the airstrikes from a junta warplane at around 3 pm on 4 March.

"The airstrikes were carried out in the afternoon hours. I believe it was a Y-12 aircraft. Later the navy personnel also indulged in firing by  5:30 pm,” added the resident.

A Y-12 aircraft deliberately destroyed the Ponnagyun-Rathedaung highway with airstrikes. Ponnagyun was targeted by a military helicopter, but details of damage are yet to be known, asserted the resident.

 Vice commander-in-chief of the Arakan Army (AA) Dr Nyo Twan Aung revealed through his social media post that the AA fighters have  completely captured Ponnagyun township.

"Thanks to all Arakanese fighters and the overseeing commander of the regional military command, as well as commanders at all levels, for presenting Ponnagyun township and the greatest victories as a gift. I also honour the comrades, who made their supreme sacrifice," said his post.

The AA also released a video showing their successful attack on and later destruction of two armoured vehicles sent as reinforcements from Sittwe to Ponnagyun by the junta forces on 28 February.