By: Camp Correspondent
April 1, 2025
The Arakan Army (AA), operating under the United League of Arakan (ULA), has imposed a strict night curfew across northern Maungdaw Township and is preparing a large-scale clearance operation following recent clashes with the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA).
According to local sources, the curfew is in effect from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM and covers the entire northern region of Maungdaw, particularly the areas around the Kyain Chaung military zone. AA patrols have intensified in recent days, signaling a buildup ahead of anti-insurgent operations.
ARSA Ambush and Ongoing Fighting
On March 29, ARSA fighters ambushed an AA patrol motorbike near Mee Taik village along the Taung Pyo-Kyain Chaung concrete road, killing two AA soldiers and seizing their weapons. ARSA later released a video of the attack and claimed responsibility.
This ambush marked the beginning of a series of coordinated assaults by ARSA across both Buthidaung and Maungdaw Townships. The group claimed to have inflicted significant casualties on AA battalions in Mee Taik and Taung Pyo, northern Maungdaw. ARSA also stated it had captured a large cache of weapons and ammunition from AA forces during these operations.
A ground source confirmed: “Intense clashes are ongoing in multiple locations. The fighting began on March 29 and has spread across northern Maungdaw and parts of Buthidaung.”
AA Response and Civilian Warnings
In response, the AA has ramped up security and launched preparations for a clearance operation in the affected areas. Rohingya residents have reported that AA forces are conducting house-to-house checks and warning villagers not to shelter ARSA fighters.
A Rohingya elder stated, “The AA has instructed us not to help or harbor any ARSA members. They said failure to comply will bring severe punishment.”
The AA has also begun covertly identifying areas suspected of harboring ARSA elements, with some locals expressing concern about potential civilian casualties if operations intensify.
Rising Tensions and Regional Instability
ARSA, in its latest statement, warned the AA to “stop brutalities against the Rohingya people and other ethnic groups in Arakan.” The group has vowed to continue fighting unless AA ceases alleged abuses against the Rohingya.
These developments have further destabilized the region, placing civilians—especially displaced Rohingya communities—at increased risk. Humanitarian access remains extremely limited, and fears are growing over potential retaliation, mass arrests, and renewed displacement.
As the situation remains fluid, further updates will follow based on ground developments.
