AA captures Minbya-based all battalions, many soldiers surrender

The Arakan Army (AA) has captured all three battalions based in Minbya of Rakhine State. Many soldiers along with their families surrendered to the AA.

A reliable source stated that the number of surrendered individuals will be over 500, including heads of various junta  departments in Minbya, officers like division commanders of junta forces, non-commissioned officers, soldiers including 100 wounded along with their family members.

"Since yesterday, they were asked to  surrender. One division commander among them is seemingly injured. Over 100 soldiers also sustained injuries. This morning, it's confirmed that all of them surrendered to the AA," added the source.

A  Minbya resident close to the AA informed Narinjara News that the 379th light infantry battalion, one of the remaining battalions in Minbya, was completely captured on the night of Monday.

The resident also added that he  witnessed over 100 prisoners of war along with their families from the 379th battalion were transported in four cars by the AA fighters at around 9 am on Tuesday.

"There were more than 100 soldiers. Many women, children and injured patients were also seen with the soldiers. The AA comrades exclaimed- we got it. I witnessed the development from nearby area of Yar Maung bridge," he added.

The surrendered individuals include township administrator and department officials. They also carried their chickens, pigs and others.

On  6 February at Shwe Laung village under Minbya township, the shrapnel from junta’s airstrikes injured a 9-year-old boy and two women.

Minbya township housed three light infantry battalions namely  380th, 379th and 541st. The AA fighters captured the 380th battalion on 28 January.