Thinzar Nwe, Narinjara News, April 17, 2025 

On April 13, just before Thingyan, the Arakan Army (AA) reportedly freed 170 prisoners of war along with their families who had been captured during the battle for Minbya town in Rakhine State. 

A source near the (ULA/AA) in Minbya Township informed Narinjara, “The AA is freeing junta soldiers along with their families who had been detained amid the clashes in Minbya. AA officials interact thoughtfully with their families, conduct ceremonies, and offer them financial assistance prior to their release.” 

The announcement of the release was made on the morning of April 13. The released prisoners came from safe and secure regions, and they were prioritized for release, a source close to the (AA) informed Narinjara. 

“The AA freed the junta detainees along with their families as they felt secure in the region. It is recognized that the AA has not relinquished the areas that are under military council control," he said.

The Arakan Army looked after the captives and their families taken during the conflict. They were set free during the Thingyan festival, a significant celebration. 

In February, the Arakan Army (AA) freed over 300 prisoners of war and their relatives, which included 26 regular detainees taken by the Arakan Army (AA). 

The Arakan Army has not provided any details regarding the liberation of these prisoners of war just before Thingyan in Minbya. Narinjara has also reached out to AA spokesman U Khaing Thukha for questioning, but there has been no response so far.