The Junta is expanding its presence with new military bases in several townships in Rakhine State, amid an escalation of fighting since November 13, according to residents.
New military bases have been established and expanded in Rathedaung, Kyaukphyu, and Ramree townships, accompanied by a substantial deployment of weaponry and personnel, residents said.
A Kyaukphyu resident mentioned that seven new military bases have been positioned in the waterways and creeks entering Kyaukphyu Township, and patrolling the urban area day and night.
A local observed that, "Since the commencement of the conflict in Rakhine, the military council has established approximately seven new temporary camps in Kyaukphyu township. These camps are strategically positioned at key entrances and exits of the town, situated on the banks of rivers and creeks," he stated.
In Rakhine State, following the renewed conflict between Military Council troops and the Arakan Army (AA), the AA has captured three Military Council camps, and the fighting between the military council and AA is intense in Buthidaung, Maungdaw, and Paletwa townships.
Over 30 Military Council troops are currently temporarily stationed in Thein Taung, located south of Ramree Township. “Following the fighting, over 30 Military Council troops were observed stationed at Thein Taung in the southern part of the town," said a resident of Ramree.
In Sittwe Township, the headquarters of the Rakhine State Military Council, security measures have intensified, and arrests of civilians and students have occurred.On November 13, the Military Council arrested at least four local residents, including the ward/village administrators of Kyaukphyu Township.
."On the day the battle started, the Military Council displayed a show of force by parading around with armored vehicles, and security measures on the roads have been consistently heightened. We are afraid to go out due to the stringent security checks," expressed a resident of Sittwe.
In Rathedaung Township, three new Military Council camps have been established, causing residents to flee due to concerns about potential conflict, as reported by a resident.
"In Rathedaung Township, after the conflict, Military Council deployments have been established at Zedi Taung, Sikar Taung, and Kannar Road. Concerned about potential fighting in the township, a significant number of residents have fled to secure their safety," stated the resident.
In Pauktaw Township, Military Council troops are stationed at the police station, General Administration Department office, Lawka Hteik Pan Pagoda, and the entrances and exits of the town.
In townships such as Buthidaung, Ponnagyun, Mrauk-U, and Minbya, the Military Council is conducting nighttime patrols and firing weapons.
