The Arakan Army (AA) announced the capture of Light Infantry Battalion 380 headquarters in Minbya Township, Rakhine State, on Sunday.

According to the AA, ongoing clashes persist with junta forces in Mrauk U, Kyauktaw, and Rathedaung townships. "The junta is no longer able to compete with us and is using more shelling and airstrikes," stated the group.

Reportedly, historic Mrauk U suffered shelling from Light Infantry Battalion 377 and 540, as well as Police Battalion 31. Tragically, four residents of Mrauk U Township lost their lives due to shelling on Saturday, with at least 20 others sustaining injuries, as per the AA.

Residents of Ramree Township have been enduring junta artillery and airstrikes for over a week, though no direct combat has been reported.

Clashes also erupted in Buthidaung Township on Saturday, resulting in injuries among junta troops, according to the AA.

Furthermore, Light Infantry Battalions 232 and 344, stationed in Sittwe, the state capital, reportedly shelled Sittwe and Minbya townships, causing severe injuries to at least three villagers in Minbya Township.

Despite the AA's seizure of Pauktaw town on January 24, junta airstrikes and shelling persist, with a Y-12 military transport plane reportedly bombing the town on Saturday night.

Since the resumption of hostilities in Rakhine State in November, the AA has expanded its control, seizing Paletwa Township in southern Chin State and over 160 junta positions across northern Rakhine State and Paletwa Township.

The Arakan Army is a member of the Brotherhood Alliance, which achieved success with Operation 1027 in northern Shan State on October 27.

BOB Post