According to military sources and local residents, intense fighting has broken out between the Arakan Army (AA) and the military council forces in Laymyethna Township, Ayeyarwady Region, resulting in significant casualties on the military council’s side. The clashes began on March 17 in several villages within the Watkone village tract, including Watkone, Lekhanlae, Lekhangyi, Setsatyo, Chinlae, and Sankone villages. The military council has suffered heavy casualties, with bodies being transported to the crematorium in Oaktwinkone village near the Pathein-Monywa highway in Ingapu Township for cremation.
The fighting continues to intensify, with the military council conducting airstrikes, forcing thousands of civilians from Watkone village tract and surrounding areas to flee to safer locations. Military sources report that the clashes, which began on March 17, have not ceased and have become more severe. The military council’s aerial bombardment has increased the risk of damage to civilian lives and property. Local residents are facing significant challenges in their daily lives, including difficulties with food security, healthcare access, and basic necessities. Displaced civilians are in urgent need of emergency supplies including food, drinking water, medicine, and shelter.
The Arakan Army (AA) has been conducting continuous military operations in Ayeyarwady, Magway, and Bago Regions, which share borders with Rakhine State, according to official AA statements. The ongoing conflict has severely disrupted civilian life in the affected areas, leading to widespread displacement and humanitarian concerns. The situation continues to deteriorate as fighting persists, with local communities bearing the brunt of the conflict’s impact. The military council’s use of airstrikes has particularly heightened civilian casualties and property destruction, forcing more residents to abandon their homes and seek refuge in safer areas.
