As fighting between the military council and the Arakha Army (AA) intensifies daily in Kyaukphyu Township, residents have reportedly been fleeing to the mainland by air in recent days.
After the fighting erupted, the military council imposed restrictions on the entrance and exit checkpoints in Kyaukphyu and heightened security, forcing residents to flee the conflict by air. The majority are reportedly seeking refuge in Yangon.
“The fighting is becoming more intense every day, and we don’t know what will happen next. My family left the town, and many others are leaving as well. Some people are paying extra for air tickets so they can leave urgently,” said a person who fled from Kyaukphyu to Yangon.
Ticket sales for Kyaukphyu-Yangon flights are controlled by the Township General Administration Department, and those wishing to travel to the mainland are permitted to do so with valid documents.”
As the number of people fleeing Kyaukphyu for Yangon increases, flight ticket prices are also on the rise. Local residents have reported that tickets now range from 500,000 to 1,000,000 kyats.
A local from Kyaukphyu said, “Recently, my friend had to pay 700,000 kyats for a flight ticket to Yangon. Ticket prices vary depending on the urgency. Those who need to leave urgently pay more, and now the price for urgent tickets is nearly 1 million kyats.”
“Having money alone doesn’t guarantee a flight ticket. People can only leave once they get the green light. It’s not easy to leave with your family when tickets are so expensive. That’s why I’m waiting for the situation,” said a woman from Kyaukphyu.
The AA has launched an offensive against the Dhanyawaddy Naval Headquarters in Kyaukphyu Township, forcing thousands of locals from over 20 surrounding villages to flee.”
Sent by Aung Htein (DMG)