Intense fighting between the junta forces and Arakan Army (AA) fighters continues in Maungdaw locality of Arakan State, said local residents.

According to them, the entire Maungdaw town faced he turmoil as the junta soldiers conducted a series of airstrikes with jet fighters at around 12 am on 25 June and the clashes went ahead till 7 am next day.

A military vessel on Naf river continuously fired artillery shells targeting the populated areas. The warplanes were seen flying over the town during day and night hours.

The junta forces established some defensive positions around the town and prepared to prevent the AA fighters from entering the urban areas. The AA also deploys drones and RPGs against the junta soldiers while maintaining ground attacks.

The junta soldiers are taking positions in the Bangla monastery and social welfare relief and resettlement office in Myo Ma Ka Nyin Tan ward. Some soldiers are stationed at Let Thar and Ku La Bar Muslim villages.

“The AA fighters surrounded the town and the junta’s air force personnel tried to prevent them in vain,” said an elderly resident.

Many Maungdaw residents along with Muslims are now seeking refuge at BEHS-2 school in Mee Sat Gwa Sone. The anxious villagers arrived from Myoma Ka Nyin Tan, Myo Oo, ward-5, Let Thar, Aye Ta Li Yar, Bat Kar Gone Nar and Har Bi.