Airstrikes and arson destroy 11 villages in Kyaukphyu Township over past year

At least 11 villages in Kyaukphyu Township, Arakan (Rakhine) State have been destroyed by conflict-related junta attacks and arson over the past year, with hundreds of homes reduced to ashes since fighting intensified in February 2025, locals reported.

Kyaukphyu has endured frequent airstrikes, artillery shelling and arson attacks, causing widespread property destruction and forcing civilians to flee their homes on a near-daily basis.

"At least 11 villages in Kyaukphyu have been completely destroyed by fire. Airstrikes, artillery shelling, and junta troops setting homes ablaze during ground operations are the main causes," said a local resident monitoring the conflict.

Data compiled by DMG indicates that more than 700 houses were destroyed across at least 11 villages - Ukin, Kyattain, Shaukchaung, Kyanchaing, Katthapyay, Dauntchaung, Pyinshay, Kulabar, Malakyun, Leikkhamaw and Saichonedwain.

Fires also erupted in Taungyin, Taungoo, Minyatkon and Thayetpinauk villages in Saichonedwain Village Tract on February 9.

On March 6, 2025, a drone strike carried out by the junta destroyed 180 homes in Ukin Village.

Between March 7 and 12, 2025, 4 airstrikes targeted Kyattain Village, destroying 45 houses.

Human rights activists have denounced the destruction of civilian property, describing attacks on non-combat zones as inhumane.

"The level of force being used in Kyaukphyu is extreme. When homes are deliberately burned and destroyed like this, it indicates the junta is intentionally targeting civilian property," said a human rights activist in Arakan State.

As clashes between the junta and the Arakan Army (AA) continue in Kyaukphyu, both casualties and displacement are increasing. The junta has deployed combined land, naval and air assets in an effort to halt AA advances.

More than 60,000 people have been displaced by the fighting in Kyaukphyu, according to civil society organizations.