Military council spokesperson Zaw Min Tun has accused ethnic armed organizations including the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), Arakan Army (AA), and Karenni National Defense Force (KNDF)/Karenni National Progressive Party (KNPP) of continuing their attacks without adhering to the military’s declared ceasefire. The military council claims it announced a 20-day ceasefire from April 2 to April 22 to assist with earthquake relief and rescue operations.
However, according to official statements from the National Unity Government (NUG) and revolutionary forces, it was the military that initiated attacks after declaring the ceasefire, including airstrikes, military column operations, heavy artillery fire, drone attacks, and shooting, arresting, and killing civilians. The military spokesperson specifically alleged that on April 6, the KIA fired 82mm mortars at military headquarters in Banmaw, the TNLA engaged in clashes in the Taung Kham region, KNDF/KNPP fired upon security forces near the Bawlakhe Forest Office, and the AA attacked military vessels and security outposts in Gwa and Kyaukphyu.
Local residents report that fighting between military council forces and the Arakan Army continues almost daily in and around Kyaukphyu city in Rakhine State. The clashes have intensified as military council troops launched offensive operations against AA positions, according to Kyaukphyu residents. While both sides announced a pause in offensive operations in early April due to earthquake relief efforts, the AA stated they would continue defensive operations if attacked by military council forces. Fighting has been reported around Military Police Battalion 32 in Kyaukphyu and near the Dhanyawadi Naval Base in the Thitpoketown village area.
