The Arakha Army (AA) captured Thandwe Prison in Thandwe Township, Arakan (Rakhine) State on July 15, marking a significant advance in its operations as it also asserted control over key areas within the town.
Following AA's raid, clashes resulted in casualties among junta troops guarding the prison, forcing the remaining soldiers to flee. A junta’s airstrike near a car workshop claimed additional junta casualties, and a local hospital was reportedly damaged by the regime’s air raids.
As of July 16, AA has consolidated its position in Thandwe, pushing junta forces back to Zalun Village amid ongoing skirmishes in the region.
The town is currently experiencing a disruption in phone communications, and there are reports of residents missing following the clashes.
In a humanitarian effort, AA assisted in the evacuation of over 400 trapped residents amidst fighting in Thandwe.
Reports from Radio Free Asia (RFA) on July 16 indicate that AA has gained control of downtown Thandwe after seizing the last two remaining junta battalion bases in the town.