Narinjara News, 8 February 2022

Gun-fighting in northern Maungdaw township of Arakan State, adjacent toBangladesh international border, that began on 4 February continued tillyesterday night.

The armed members of  Arakan Army (AA) and the Burmesemilitary personnel engaged in clashes for the third time at a place near toPharwat Chaung village under the township.

The fighting started at around 11 pm on Monday and lasted for around 30minutes. AA spokesman Khaing Thukha later confirmed the incidents of fightingand also revealed that one AA member was killed as the army personnel launchedthe offensive on 4 February.

Later on 6  February, another clash broke out when the militaries invadedLetpadaung area, which is 3 kilometre east of previous fighting location Mitakevillage, added Khaing Thukha. It lasted for more than 3 hours from 3 pm whereboth sides used light and heavy weapons.

Unconfirmed sources claim that seven Burmese soldiers were killed in clashes,but Narinjara News is yet to authenticate the information.

“If the Burmese army launches another offensive, thefighting would go for a long way. So, it depends on the approach ofmilitaries,” asserted Khaing Thukha.

It may be mentioned that the fighting between AA members and Burmese soldierscame to a halt after the November 2020 national elections as there was anunderstanding with the group. But it resumed one year later.

Meanwhile, the military government has invited a number of ethnic armed groups,including the AA, for peace talks scheduled for 12 February (75th DiamondJubilee Union Day). However, many groups have not shown interest to join theinitiative.