The Arakan Army (AA) has advanced towards the Rakhine State capital, Sittwe, including an attack on a junta naval base 4km north of the city, according to the Rakhine media.
Western News reported clashes around Thone Soung village and at the Min Gan base, a strategic stronghold fortified with naval vessels.
Former army captain Zin Yaw, who defected after the 2021 coup, posted on Facebook on Wednesday that it would be the first junta naval base to fall to the AA.
The junta has reinforced the naval base and around Byaing Phyu village outside Sittwe, the Rakhine media reported.
Residents have reported junta defensive bases around Byaing Phyu and nearby areas to defend Sittwe.
In response to the AA attacks, the regime is bombarding nearby Ponnagyun, Pauktaw and Rathedaung township with airstrikes and shelling.
The armed group is attempting to seize Kyaukphyu Township, where major Chinese Belt and Road Initiative investments are located to provide western China with access to the Indian Ocean for easier trade with Europe, West Asia and Africa.
The AA has expanded its operations to neighboring Magwe, Bago and Ayeyarwady regions, seizing junta bases along Rakhine State’s borders.
The AA is a member of the Brotherhood Alliance that launched the anti-regime Operation 1027 across northern Shan State in October 2023, seizing most of northern Shan State, including the capital, Lashio, and vital trade routes with China.
The AA has seized 14 out of 17 Rakhine State’s townships and Paletwa Township in neighboring Chin State since November 2023.
