July 8, 2024

The Arakan Army (AA) announced on the evening of July 7 that they have taken control of Thandwe Airport (Mazeng Airport) in Thandwe Township, Rakhine State. According to the AA, intense fighting between the AA and junta forces has been ongoing since April 13, with the heaviest clashes occurring in June and early July.

In an effort to defend Thandwe, the junta deployed several battalions, including the 566th and 55th Light Infantry Battalions, units under Division 101, some battalions from Ayeyarwady, the Thandwe People’s Militia, and special naval units, the AA reported.

The junta forces used naval vessels and heavy artillery to shell the AA positions from Kwinwine, Thapyuchai, and Jetaw areas, and launched airstrikes with heavy and small arms fire. Despite the fierce resistance, the AA described the battle for Thandwe as one of the most challenging urban combat operations they have faced.

On June 27, the AA managed to capture the 566th Light Infantry Battalion base in Thandwe. Following this, junta forces retreated to buildings near the airport, prominent hotels, and a three-story building in Zeebyu Hill, where they continued to resist.

On July 5, around 6 AM, the AA launched an attack on the junta troops defending the vicinity of Thandwe Airport (Mazeng Airport), eventually taking control of the airport. During the Thandwe battles, the AA reported that over 400 junta soldiers were killed, and a significant amount of weapons and ammunition were seized. The AA also stated that they have provided proper burials for the deceased junta soldiers.

Currently, the only remaining junta battalion in Thandwe is the 55th Light Infantry Battalion, and the AA continues to engage in offensive operations against them.

Photo: AA