AA Captured the Last Military Base in Maungdaw

The Arakan Army (AA) has successfully captured the last remaining base of the Myanmar military in Maungdaw Township, Arakan State, according to a statement from the United League of Arakan. The No. 5 Border Guard Division (Nakha-5), located in Maungdaw City, was taken over by the AA at 9:30 AM today.

The statement further announced an indefinite ban on maritime travel along the Nat River, effective from 3:30 PM on December 8, due to ongoing clashes and the escape of Myanmar military troops.

As the AA launched its offensive, Myanmar military troops and their allies fled from Nakha-5, reportedly retreating to Kasinkala Phrofa police station. The fleeing soldiers utilized machine boats, motorboats, and paddle boats to navigate the Nat River, leaving the area under heavy pursuit by AA forces. Fighting reportedly continues in other parts of Maungdaw.

Analysts Warn of Ethnic Tensions

The ongoing conflict has raised concerns among political analysts and community leaders. Some claim that the Myanmar military is attempting to frame the AA and its affiliates as “Islamic extremists” to incite further division among ethnic groups in the region.

Analysts have also noted that the AA has labeled the Myanmar military as a “terrorist army” and accused its allied forces of disrupting harmony between Rakhine Buddhists and Burmese Buddhists. These narratives, they argue, risk exacerbating existing tensions among communities in Arakan State.

The Rohingya community, meanwhile, has urged all parties to consider the long-term consequences of such rhetoric. Community leaders have highlighted the importance of avoiding divisive language, emphasizing the need for peace and coexistence in the region.

Rohingya Vision News will continue to monitor the developments in Maungdaw and provide updates as they unfold.

Rohingya Vision News