By: Hafizur Rahman
The Arakan Army (AA) has achieved a significant military victory, capturing Maungdaw Township in Rakhine State, Myanmar, thereby securing control of the country’s 270-kilometer border with Bangladesh. This accomplishment follows months of intense clashes with Myanmar’s military forces.
On December 8, the AA announced the capture of Colonel Thurein Tun, Commander of No. 15 Military Operations Command (MOC-15). Colonel Thurein Tun, along with officers and soldiers from Border Guard Force No. 5 (NaKhaKa-5), fled during the battle but was captured alive. NaKhaKa-5 was the last remaining military base near Maungdaw.
An AA leader confirmed the news, stating, “Thurein Tun was captured alive. The exact number of officers and soldiers with him is still being verified.” Reports also indicate that 80 Rohingya fighters and other soldiers were captured during this operation.
Colonel Thurein Tun, who previously commanded the Central Regional Command, was reassigned to MOC-15 to oversee operations in Maungdaw and Buthidaung. He reportedly had connections with Rohingya businessmen in Maungdaw and was involved in training and arming some Rohingya youth.
The AA launched its military campaign in Maungdaw in May and gained full control of the township after six months. This strategic victory has enabled the AA to dominate three key townships along the Bangladesh border: Maungdaw, Buthidaung, and Paletwa in Chin State, which also shares a border with India.
A military expert emphasized the importance of reopening trade between Bangladesh and Rakhine State to alleviate the suffering of local residents. The United Nations has warned that two million people in Rakhine face famine due to blockades imposed by Myanmar’s military, restricting access to food, medicine, and fuel.
The expert also encouraged Bangladesh to initiate discussions with the AA to address the ongoing Rohingya crisis.
The AA is now focusing on expanding its influence into southern Rakhine areas, including Gwa, Taungup, and Ann, while simultaneously gaining ground in northern Shan State through Operation 1027. Since November, the AA has taken control of 13 out of 17 townships in Rakhine State, along with Paletwa Township in Chin State, solidifying its dominance in the region.
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