- Web Master
- October 21, 2024
Lu Htet Naing, Narinjara News, 24 June 2024
The Arakan Army (AA) has taken over Ma Zin airport at
Ngapali beach of Thandwe township in Arakan State on Sunday morning, said local
and reliable sources.
"The AA fighters staged a feint offensive from
Thandwe's Kin Maw road and entered from Pan Chin Pauk Hmo Hin Pyin to seize
control of the airport. Their strategy succeeded as the 566th infantry
battalion may fall soon. In Ngapali, the families of soldiers are preparing to
evacuate," said a Ngapali resident.
The soldiers stationed at the airport were unable to
resist the AA offensive and fled.
"The 55th and 566th battalions were stationed at
the airport together. Some soldiers died and most of them fled. Those who
escaped regrouped at the 55th battalion. Currently, the AA fighters are
attacking the 566th infantry battalion, located one mile away from the
airport,” added the resident.
Despite the joint deployment of the 55th and 566th
infantry battalions and soldiers from Ayeyarwady region at the airport, the
junta soldiers relinquished control due to their inability to resist the AA
offensive.
A local political veteran stated that the capture of
Thandwe airport, which is crucial for the military regime, showcases the
ability of AA fighters. He also noted that the 55th and 566th infantry
battalions were on the verge of collapse.
While the AA fighters attacked Ma Zin airport, the
junta soldiers conducted a series of airstrikes on Shwe Kyaung Pyin village
near Thandwe township, which killed two civilians and destroyed many houses.