Junta naval attacks disrupt livelihoods in Werathani

Junta naval vessels participating in maritime exercises. Photo: CINCDS

DMG Newsroom

22 September 2026, Werathani

Shelling, arbitrary detentions, and aggressive troop movements by junta navy warships in Werathani Township, Arakan State, have left local residents and displaced civilians struggling with severe livelihood and survival hardships, according to local sources.

In recent days, junta navy warships opened heavy artillery fire on two fishing boats near Anauk Phayonekar Island and surrounding areas in Werathani Township, while also firing heavy and light weapons toward nearby coastal villages, local residents reported.

These attacks and harassment by junta naval forces have created profound daily survival challenges for residents across Werathani Township.

"Two junta warships have been maneuvering near Sandawshin Island," a local resident said. "They have advanced close to Soemelkyi and Kalarthein villages and opened fire. Junta warships previously never ventured this far into the island mouth."

Locals depend primarily on fishing for their livelihoods and rely on waterway transport for travel. The naval presence has severely restricted movement and maritime activities.

Displaced persons taking refuge on the island receive no humanitarian aid. Because junta warships shoot at and detain local fishermen, displaced families are barred from going out to sea, leaving them without daily income or food.

"It has been nearly three years since I fled Sittwe," a displaced man said. "Initially, we sold our personal belongings to buy food. When money ran out, I worked as a daily laborer on fishing boats. Due to recent attacks and detentions by junta navy warships, coupled with rising fo

od prices, displaced faHsintetmaw Village in Werathani Township shelters more than 100 displaced households comprising over 400 individuals.milies like ours face severe survival crises."

Among them, more than 20 households face dire living conditions and require urgent relief assistance, according to local reports.

On September 17, a junta warship opened fire on and detained eight Muslim fishermen at sea before releasing them later that evening.

Similarly, on September 20, junta forces detained five Muslim fishermen near Soemelkyi and Kalarthein villages, interrogating them before releasing them in the evening.