- Web Master
- October 19, 2024
Thinzar New, Narinjara News, 24 May 2024
The military junta has designated Sittwe, the capital of Arakan State, as the
last fortress town to resist the offensive of Arakan Army (AA) and made
extensive military preparations.
"The junta may soon relinquish control of Maungdaw. After it, the AA's
offensive will turn to Sittwe. Understanding the development, the junta
forces have prepared to defend Sittwe. Reinforcements are being made through
aircraft and military vessels," said a local resident.
The junta is probably preparing to defend Sittwe in
two phases. The first phase involves reinforcing weapons, soldiers, and food
supplies via aircraft and military vessels. On 21 May, a number of large
military aircrafts landed and it continued for some days. Now there has been a
notable surge in reinforcement of soldiers and weapons in recent days," he
added.
The junta has also provided military training to more
than one thousand Muslims and they are equipped with weapons to
understandably resist the AA fighters.
In the second phase, the junta forces are planting landmines around
Sittwe. They are also placing naval mines in coastal area,
constructing bomb shelters, trenches and bunkers within the military
battalions and finally renovating military buildings to fortify them against
the bomb attacks.
"Many navy ships from Yangon arrived here
carrying arms & ammunition, food supplies, as well as construction
materials like gravel, iron and cement bags. Many bunkers and trenches are
being constructed,” he stated.
The AA fighters are yet to attack Sittwe town,
but they have occupied three townships under Sittwe district namely Rathedaung,
Ponnagyun and Pauktaw.
"Being the capital, Sittwe has many battalions
and a civilian population. I believe the AA fighters will carefully consider
their actions to avoid civilian harassment,” said veteran Arakanese politician
U Pe Than.
The residents of Sittwe are concerned about the reports about the AA’s probable
plan to attack Sittwe before the rainy season.
"Now all roads are closed in Sittwe and none can
escape by the land and waterways. Escaping to rural areas by boat is no longer
an option due to landmines on the shores. Common people cannot afford flying to
Yangon. We are in a helpless situation,” said a female resident.