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 heavy casualties according to local residents and military sources. The fighting 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 been experiencing significant losses, with numerous casualties 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 the 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 local residents living in fear due to the ongoing airstrikes. The situation has created a humanitarian crisis as civilians are forced to abandon their homes and communities to escape the violence.
The Arakan Army (AA) has been conducting continuous offensive operations into Ayeyarwady, Magway, and Bago Regions, which share borders with Rakhine State, according to AA statements. The ongoing conflict has severely disrupted the daily lives of local residents, who are facing significant challenges related to food security, healthcare, and basic necessities. Local communities report urgent needs for emergency assistance as they cope with displacement and the destruction of their livelihoods. The military council’s use of airstrikes has particularly heightened civilian fears and contributed to the mass exodus from conflict-affected areas.
