by Hafizur Rahman
Kyaukphyu, March 24, 2026
Heavy fighting broke out in Sane town of Kyaukphyu Township on March 24, as attacks involving drones and naval fire struck the area, injuring civilians and setting homes on fire, according to local sources.
The town is currently under the control of the Arakan Army. Local residents said the military council launched coordinated attacks using drones, naval forces, and ground troops.
At around 11:50 a.m., four drones were sent toward the central areas of Sane town. Explosives were dropped near the bus station and the old market, causing fires in several houses.
“The drones attacked our area suddenly. Bombs fell near the market and bus station. Houses were burning, and people were running in fear,” one resident told Rohingya Khobor.
Another resident said, “Two women were injured at a temporary market. We are very scared because attacks can happen anytime.”
Following the drone strikes, naval vessels fired heavy weapons toward the town from the sea, according to local sources. At the same time, ground troops advanced and launched attacks on nearby villages, intensifying clashes between the two sides.
At least four civilians were reported injured, including an elderly woman, a young man, a teenage boy, and another woman. Several houses were also destroyed by fire.
A local villager said, “We cannot stay safely in our homes. Many people are thinking about leaving because the situation is very dangerous.”
Residents said similar attacks have taken place earlier this month in other parts of Kyaukphyu Township, involving drones, airstrikes, and heavy weapons, which caused damage to homes and infrastructure.
The situation in the area remains tense as fighting continues.
