As battle approaches Maungdaw, junta goes for reinforcements through waterways

Naung Min Thu

As the conflict approaches Maungdaw town of  Rakhine State, there emerges a report of substantial military reinforcements through  the waterways. Meanwhile, the navy barges are relocating more family members belonging to  military personnel.

The military junta used  Kanyin Chaung economic zone jetty in Maungdaw to transport the military weapons, food items, fuel and other supplies to Maungdaw. From 27 March to 1 May, they carried out four reinforcement operations using three military barges. The family members of military personnel, employees and some local residents were also transported to Sittwe, said the local residents.

"As the battle spread nearer to the town, the junta soldiers strengthened their positions. Consequently, not only the employees but also some residents fled. On the evening hours of 1 May, it was learnt that around 250 individuals, including family members of military personnel and employees, were transported by the military barges via Kanyin Chaung economic zone," added a local resident.

The Arakha Army (AA) has been accelerating its offensive to capture the entire Maungdaw district, while the junta is using waterways to prevent Maungdaw, a crucial border trade center, from falling into AA's hands. They are also strengthening their defense by increasing the  military strength.

Military soldiers, equipment and supplies are also being reinforced via military barges through Kanyin Chaung jetty. The family members of military personnel, employees, and select local residents are being transported to Sittwe on the return trips of those barges.

"If one  wishes to go to Sittwe using military barges, he/she must register at the district general administration. It  requires a national registration card, household list and a recommendation letter from the ward administrator. The employees are charged Kyats 300,000,  while civilians need to pay Kyats 500,000. However, the family members of military personnel have been  exempted from these charges," said a Maungdaw resident.

The AA fighters are intensifying its offensive against all junta battalions in Maungdaw. The residents reported that the gun fighting is escalating every day. It is now approaching Maungdaw town. Many families fled from Maungdaw and they are now encountering various difficulties.