18 Apr 2020 | 02:30 AM UTC
Myanmar: Clashes leave one dead in Kyauktaw (Rakhine state) April 16
Fighting between military and rebel forces in Kyauktaw (Rakhine state) kills at least one civilian and wounds multiple people on April 16; similar incidents likely over the near term
Event
At least one civilian was killed and several others were wounded after clashes erupted between military troops and suspected Arakan Army rebel forces in Rakhine state on Thursday, April 16. Fighting reportedly took place in Kyauktaw township after soldiers were targeted with land mines. As of Thursday, it is not clear whether there were any military or rebel casualties.
Similar incidents are likely in Rakhine state over the near term.
Context
Violence resumed in early December 2018 between Rakhine separatists and the military. The Arakan Army seeks greater autonomy for Buddhists in Rakhine state. According to the Myanmar office of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), about 7500 displaced people are scattered across 29 sites in Rakhine due to the violence and 730,000 people in neighboring Bangladesh.
Advice
Individuals in Rakhine state are advised to monitor developments, remain vigilant for militant and military activity, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.
Travelers are advised to avoid all but essential travel to Rakhine state, except the southern townships of Kyaukpyu, Ramree, Munaung, Toungup, Thandwe (including the tourist resort of Ngapali), and Gwa.
