Intense fighting has broken out between the Arakan Army (AA) and the military council forces in Laymyethna Township, Ayeyarwady Region, with military council forces suffering significant casualties, according to local residents and military sources. The clashes began on March 17 in several villages within the Watkone village tract, including Watkone, Lekhanlae, Lekhangyi, Setsatyo, Chinlae, and Sankone villages. Due to the high number of casualties on the military council’s side, bodies are being transported to the crematorium in Oaktwinkone village near the Pathein-Monywa highway in Ingapu Township for cremation.
The escalating conflict has forced thousands of civilians from the Watkone village tract and surrounding areas to flee to safer locations. Local residents are living in fear due to airstrikes conducted by the military council, and the deteriorating security situation has led to widespread displacement. Military sources confirm that the fighting has remained intense since March 17 until present, with ongoing airstrikes in the area. The situation has created a humanitarian crisis as civilians continue to seek refuge from the violence.
The Arakan Army (AA) has been conducting consecutive military operations in Ayeyarwady, Magway, and Bago Regions, which share borders with Rakhine State, according to official AA statements. The intensity of the fighting is expected to increase in the region, and civilians continue to flee to safety as the conflict shows no signs of abating. The ongoing military operations have significantly impacted civilian life in the area, with many families forced to abandon their homes and livelihoods due to the fighting and airstrikes.
