The military junta has resumed its attacks on the town of Kyeintali in Gwa Township in Arakan State, which is currently under the control of the Arakha Army (AA), with airstrikes, according to local residents in Gwa.
In addition to the airstrikes, the junta has been shelling the town daily from naval and artillery units stationed in Gwa, causing damage to houses, markets and religious buildings.
“It seems that they are on the counter-offensive and are mainly using airstrikes. There are hardly any buildings left in the town because of the bombings and artillery attacks. We have heard that there are still some residents. Communication is difficult, so we aren’t sure if there have been casualties,” said a resident of Gwa.
Some residents are still trapped in Kyeintali. According to aid workers, the junta’s airstrikes have hampered rescue efforts in the area.
On 5 August, a fighter jet bombed the town and hit a Christian church where civilians had taken refuge. Eleven civilians were killed in the explosion and 11 others were injured.
“Innocent civilians are dying because of the ruthless actions of the military council. We strongly condemn these acts,” said a social activist.
In the face of the AA offensive, junta troops stationed in Kyeintali reportedly retreated to Ku Lar Pyin village on 13 August and took up defensive positions there.
Fighting continues near Ku Lar Pyin village (Yadanar Myaing) along the Kyeintali-Gwa road where junta troops are stationed, with military tensions running high on both sides.
After the junta launched offensives and captured junta positions in Gwa Township, the junta has strengthened its defenses in Gwa town, where Light Infantry Battalions 562 and 563 are stationed.
Sent by Aung Htein (DMG)