AA Fighters Capture Bunker as Army Column Collapses in Heavy Fighting

Narinjara, 18 March 2026

A column of Myanmar junta’s army has collapsed and their bunker is captured by the Arakan Army (AA) fighters in an intensified fighting across Kyaukphyu township of Rakhine State.

The military column, comprising around 70 soldiers, had attacked an AA-controlled area between Min Pyin and Thaing Chaung on 16 March, said a ground military source.

The AA fighters promptly responded to the attack and caused heavy casualties and arrests. Later the column retreated.

"The attack began in the evening hours on 16 March. As the army took a firm position and attacked, the AA fighters responded where most of the soldiers were killed and some fled. Many of them were also captured," added the source.

Later the AA fighters seized a camp with a bunker. It was a significant victory for them.

The defeated column included soldiers of Taungup Army Sakhaka (5) also.

Initially the AA fighters lost the battle, but soon they reorganized and defeated the junta soldiers compelling them to retreat.