June 30, 2024
Intensified clashes in Thandwe Township, southern Rakhine State, have forced thousands of residents to flee their homes. Residents from Thandwe town and surrounding villages have been evacuating to safer areas as the conflict between the Arakan Army (AA) and military junta forces escalates.
The ongoing violence has seen villages like Kan Mauk, Kyauk Seit, Kyaung Taik, Zaydi Pyin, Latt Pan Su, Shwe Kyaung Pyin, Kyan Pyin, Nan Chaung, Ngapali, Zee Phyu Kone, Ma Zin, Mo Hinn Pyin, Sabar Gyi, Gawt, Lin Tha, Wartaung Kwin, Myay Pin, Ywet Taw, Lone Tha, and Shwe Thaw Chay almost entirely abandoned.
Residents report that only one or two caretakers remain in most homes, with the majority seeking refuge elsewhere. The population, which saw over 230,000 voters in the 2020 elections, has dwindled to tens of thousands remaining in the area.
The AA’s offensive has reached Shwe Kyaung Pyin village near Thandwe Township, with skirmishes reported around Ma Zin Airport and Zee Phyu Kone. Since June 25, residents have been fleeing Thandwe town, and the military has fortified its defensive positions.
The military has retreated from Vartaung to the New City housing area and taken positions at Thandwe prison. Security in Thandwe town is maintained by Light Infantry Battalion 101 and Military Operations Command 22.
Currently, the AA has cut off the road between Thandwe and Ngapali, disrupting communication and transportation between Light Infantry Battalion 55 and Infantry Battalion 566, further complicating the military’s efforts to maintain control in the region.
