The security forces of Myanmar have reported that several members have either surrendered or been detained by a rebel organization, as revealed on Wednesday. The ethnic armed rebel group in Rakhine State, known as the Arakan Army (AA), has stated that at least 28 police members, along with weapons, have surrendered. Additionally, 10 military personnel have been arrested. This organization has been advocating for self-administration in the state for an extended period.
However, the veracity of the Arakan Army’s claims could not be independently verified by Reuters.
Meanwhile, a curfew has been imposed in the capital of the state, Sittwe. Local authorities have reported the presence of armored tanks patrolling the city.
Since the military coup in 2021, Myanmar has been facing challenging times. Since October, three ethnic minority rebel groups, including the AA, have been engaged in fighting against the military forces in various parts of the country. These groups claim to have captured some cities and military posts.
A spokesperson for the rebels, Zaw Min Tun, alleged on Tuesday that these insurgent groups are causing ‘destruction to the entire country.’ He also claimed that they have occupied military outposts, which he dismissed as ‘propaganda.’
Zaw Min Tun further mentioned ongoing conflicts in the states of Rakhine, Shan, and Kayah. However, he did not comment on the surrender of members of the security forces to the rebel groups.
There are also reports of fighting in the Chin state. From there, 43 Myanmar soldiers crossed the border and were apprehended in India’s Mizoram state.
An Indian security official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, stated that, as per the agreement to not disclose names, they have handed over a significant number of Myanmar soldiers to the Myanmar authorities through another point along the border.
Please note that the situation is dynamic, and the information provided here may be subject to change.
