Border News Agency
Mrauk-U, May 20
During the final decisive phase of the Arakan war, the Arakan Army (AA) has been continuously releasing the junta-affiliated individuals who were under its control.
In battles to capture towns such as Maungdaw, Buthidaung, Mrauk-U, and Minbra, the Arakan Army has released junta armed personnel, along with their wives, children, and family members who had been detained during the fighting.
The Arakan Army (AA) released 32 junta soldiers who had surrendered and laid down their arms during the offensive battle for control of Maungdaw town. On May 19, each of them was given 100,000 kyats as travel allowance before being released.
Additionally, on the same day, May 19, the AA released 184 individuals, including junta personnel and their family members, who had been held during the battle for Mrauk-U town.
Among the 184 released was the wife of the battalion commander of the 540th Light Infantry Battalion based in Mrauk-U.
“On behalf of everyone, I sincerely thank you for truly sending us home. Throughout the entire time we were held here, the Arakan Army not only detained us but also provided full support for all our family members—social needs, food, clothing, health care—making sure nothing was lacking and taking good care of us. On behalf of all family members, I want to express my special gratitude,” said Daw May Thu Win, wife of the battalion commander.
In addition, the Arakan Army (AA) also released over 300 family members of military personnel from Buthidaung Township, which had been seized by the AA. The release took place on May 18.
A total of 344 people were released, including 69 individuals from 26 families belonging to the Khami, Mro, and Thet ethnic groups, along with 245 individuals from 81 Rakhine families.
Additionally, the Arakan Army released over 200 family members of junta soldiers who had been detained during the battle for Minbra Township on April 16.
Earlier, on April 13, the group also released 170 family members of junta soldiers.
The Arakan Army (AA) had earlier released 314 family members of junta personnel in February, who had been captured during the battle for control of Mrauk-U town.
As part of the final decisive phase of war, the AA now fully controls 15 townships, including the Paletwa region.
During these town-capturing operations, the AA detained over 10,000 individuals, including junta troops and their family members. The AA stated that they would be released based on the situation and circumstances.
