AA continues rescuing civilians trapped in Maungdaw, over 20,000 rescued

Maung Sar Ga, Narinjara News, 21 August 2024

The Arakan Army (AA) continues to rescue civilians trapped in urban wards of  Maungdaw as the junta forces intensified airstrikes on the town. According to an AA statement, over 20,000 civilians have been rescued till 20 August. From 7 to 20 August, the AA fighters rescued the trapped civilians.

AA spokesperson U Khaing Thu Kha stated that during the rescue efforts, the civilians were saved irrespective of  their race or religion. They were later relocated to their chosen places with necessary safety measures.

Mostly the Muslims from Maungdaw urban areas were rescued by the AA fighters. The others are Arakanese and Hindus.

U Khaing Thu Kha also informed that the rescued civilians are also offered food and medicines.

Many displaced persons are now suffering from dysentery and diarrhea. They urgently need medicines for various illnesses, said the AA in an earlier statement.

In Maungdaw, under the AA’s control, dysentery and diarrhea resulted in five deaths. Caused by contaminated water, the people need urgent medical assistance and drinking water.

Since 4 August, the AA fighters have intensified their offensive to capture Maungdaw. They have  penetrated Maungdaw and captured most of the town areas defeating the junta soldiers and Muslim armed groups. To fully capture the town, they have lately started the offensive against the 5th border guard police battalion (Na Kha Kha-5).