10 Feb 2022 | 05:28 AM UTC
Myanmar: Further fighting between military and Arakan Army may occur in northern Maungdaw, Rakhine State, as of Feb. 10
Further clashes between military and Arakan Army may occur in northern Maungdaw, Rakhine, Myanmar, as of Feb. 10. Defer nonessential trips.
Event
Additional clashes between the Myanmar military (Tatmadaw) and the ethnic militant group Arakan Army (AA) may occur in northern Maungdaw Township, northern Rakhine State, as of Feb. 10. Fighting reportedly began Feb. 4, when the Tatmadaw attacked an AA base near Mee Taik Village in the Latpan Mountain area. Skirmishes continued in nearby Pharwat Chaung Village through at least Feb. 7. The armed confrontations have reportedly resulted in casualties to both sides. While reports have not indicated further clashes, additional fighting between the Tatmadaw and the AA remains possible.
Both the Tatmadaw and the AA will probably maintain a heightened presence in affected areas; roadblocks and checkpoints are likely. Officials could suspend transport in the region without warning; authorities have halted river and ground transport during the previous fighting in Rakhine State in 2020. Localized transport disruptions are probable.
The impact area is around 135 km (84 miles) northeast of Sittwe.
Context
Past fighting has also occurred in Buthidaung, Kyauktaw, Minbya, Mrauk-U, Ponnagyun, and Rathedaung townships in northern Rakhine. Further armed confrontations are likely, as the conflict remains entrenched due to multiple factors, including historical disputes, ethnic feuds, and AA demands for greater autonomy from a Bamar-dominated central government.
Advice
Defer nonessential travel to affected areas of northern Rakhine State until tensions subside and renewed fighting becomes less likely. Seek updated information from trusted local contacts to determine security conditions due to delayed reporting. Heed all instructions from security personnel. If operating in the affected region, maintain contact with your diplomatic mission.
