Intense fighting has broken out between the Arakan Army (AA) and the military council forces in Laymyethna Township, Ayeyarwady Region, with military sources and local residents reporting significant casualties on the military council’s side. The clashes began on March 17 in several villages within the Watkone village tract, including Watkone, Lekhonlay, Lekhongyi, Setsatyo, Chinlay, and Sankone villages. The military council has suffered heavy casualties, with bodies being transported to the crematorium at Oaktwinkone village near the Pathein-Monywa highway in Ingapu Township for cremation.
The fighting continues to be intense at present, with the military council conducting airstrikes, forcing thousands of civilians from Watkone village tract and surrounding areas to flee to safer locations. According to military sources, the battles have remained fierce since March 17 until today, with civilian lives and property at risk due to the military’s aerial bombardments. The ongoing conflict has severely disrupted daily life in the region, with local residents facing challenges in basic necessities, healthcare access, and education.
The Arakan Army (AA) has been conducting continuous offensive operations in Ayeyarwady, Magway, and Bago Regions, which share borders with Rakhine State, according to AA statements. The current fighting has resulted in widespread displacement of local populations, who are now facing significant humanitarian challenges including food security issues, limited access to healthcare services, and disruption of educational activities. The situation continues to deteriorate as the military council employs heavy weapons and airstrikes in civilian areas, causing extensive damage to infrastructure and forcing more residents to abandon their homes and seek refuge in safer locations.
