KyaingHein Lin, Narinjara News, 31 August 2024

Gunfighting erupted between the junta soldiers and Arakan Army (AA) fighters inSittwe, the capital city of Arakan State.

Amilitary source reported that on 29 August at  around 3 pm, the juntaforces engaged in military operations against the AA fighters near Min Hla(also known as Mee Laung) village under the capital region.

“Thefighting began as the junta soldiers launched an offensive. They also firedartillery shells and advanced from the river side towards Min Hlavillage," added the source.

Somebattalions in Sittwe fired at least 30 artillery shells. The fighting lastedfor hours and later the junta forces retreated after suffering many casualties.

Asource close to the AA stated that their initial battle in Sittwe gave themsuccess. Villages like Min Hla, Kin Maw and Wah Bo remain in thevicinity of gun fighting. The  junta also bombed the battle site witha jet fighter at around 3  am on 30 August.

Theyfired artillery shells and used drones too, which struck Kha Maung Taw villageunder  Ponnagyun township destroying a monastery and some other houses.The junta soldiers frequently fired artillery on the village causing damages to private buildings.

Currently,the battle is approaching Sittwe causing serious concern for the residents whoare now trapped inside.