The Arakan Army (AA) officially announced on November 28 that it has fully taken control of Taunggoke town.
According to the statement, the AA captured 13 military camps of the junta in Taunggoke Township during a 17-day offensive conducted between November 4 and 20. Following these victories, the AA successfully secured complete control of Taungup town on November 24.
As a result, the Arakan Army (AA) stated that its troops and security forces are working to ensure safety and security within Taunggoke town. This includes protecting residential buildings and infrastructure, preventing theft and looting, and avoiding any disruptions caused by intrusions.
However, the Arakan Army (AA) reported that thieves are being apprehended daily within Taunggoke town, along with the stolen items. The AA stated that those caught are being questioned, and the recovered items will be returned to their rightful owners.
However, due to the ongoing intensity of the clashes, the Arakan Army (AA) has stated that all recovered items are being securely stored for the time being. The AA also announced that it will continue to investigate and apprehend individuals involved in the theft of civilian property within Taunggoke Township and take appropriate action against them.
The Arakan Army (AA) stated that simultaneous offensives are being launched to fully capture and secure Taunggoke Township. These operations include attacks on the No. 5 Military Operations Command Headquarters, as well as the No. 346 and No. 544 Light Infantry Battalions.
Military analysts monitoring the situation have indicated that the entire Taunggoke Township could fall under the control of the Arakan Army (AA) within days. This follows the AA’s complete capture of Thandwe, which serves as a supply route to Taunggoke by land, and its ongoing offensive operations in Ann Township.
Taunggoke Township shares a border with Pantaung Township in Pyay District, Bago Region. The distance between Taungup town and Pantaung town is approximately 39 miles via the Taunggoke Mountain Road.
Taunggoke Township is located between Ann Township and Thandwe Township, with road connections to both. Additionally, it has a port that provides waterway access to Manaung Township.
If the Arakan Army (AA) fully secures control of Taunggoke Township, it will have gained control over a key land route connecting to the Arakan region. This would significantly ease travel and transport for people from other areas, according to residents of the region.
In the decisive Arakan war, the Arakan Army (AA) has fully captured and taken control of several key areas, including Paletwa, Buthidaung, Rathedaung, Pauktaw, Kyauktaw, Mrauk U, Minbrar, Myaybon, Ponnakyun, Rambre, and Thandwe townships.
In addition to fully controlling Maungdaw and Taunggoke towns, the Arakan Army (AA) is continuing its offensive operations to completely secure entire townships. Intense fighting is also ongoing in Ann and Gwa townships.
