Intense clashes erupt at Taw Hein Taung tactical operation command in Ann

Intense clashes have erupted at Taw Hein Taung tactical operation command (near western command) in Ann township of Rakhine State where the Arakha Army (AA) fighters have launched an offensive against the military junta forces. The junta soldiers are conducting airstrikes to defend their bases.

A local resident informed Narinjara News that during the Thingyan festival, the clash became more intense.

“Not only the warplanes from Magway, but also from Tada-U were brought to conduct airstrikes. Previously, the warplanes flew from Magway only. If they lose Taw Hein Taung tactical operation command, the junta forces apprehend that the AA fighters would get more advantages in Ann locality,” added the resident.

Taw Hein Taung tactical operation command is a crucial defense post for the western command in the Rakhine region. On the evening of  16 April, clashes began there and the tactical operation command was seemingly captured by the AA fighters.

From the morning of 17 April, four battalions based in Ann township fired artillery shells towards Taw Hein Taung tactical operation command and Da Let village. Airstrikes were conducted by the jet fighters from Tada-U airbase in Mandalay and Magway regions.

On 16 April, a fierce clash took place between the soldiers and AA fighters at  Nga Yi village under  Ann township. Artillery shells were fired from the 371st light infantry battalion and other battalions. The artillery were installed  in front of the battlefield engineer battalion  towards the direction to Ann mountain ranges.

"After the closure of Ann-Padan road, the soldiers conducted many military operations. On the side of Nga Pyi village too, they conducted military operations. They fired until 5 pm,” said another resident.

A fierce clash also took place in Pain Yae San village, situated on the mountain range, on 15 April that lasted for eight hours.

In addition to the fierce battle at Pain Yae San village on 15 April, the soldiers conducted airstrikes with the jet fighters on Kazu Kaing mountain. The junta's 1-mile hill battalion also fired artillery shells. Some shells  exploded near San Chaung village.

On 11 April, the AA reported a clash against the junta soldiers at around 1,000 meters south of Min Baw village under  Ann township. According to them, five soldiers were killed and 10 others were injured.

The AA fighters also launched  an offensive against the junta's point-257 camp near  Sa Nyin village under Myebon township. 

It may be mentioned that Ann township is not only a crucial link between the mainland and Rakhine State but also holds a significant military importance. Additionally, Ann serves as a major hub for trades.