Sittwe-Based Junta Commands Face Imminent Threat as Arakan Army Advances Near Cantonment

Growing anxiety has gripped the ranks of the Myanmar military as the Arakan Army (AA) intensifies its offensive near the state capital, according to sources inside the armed forces.

Military units based in Sittwe—including the Regional Operations Command (ROC), several Light Infantry Battalions (LIBs), Infantry Battalions (IBs), and medical units—now face direct threats as AA ground operations move closer to the primary army cantonment.

“Junta forces initially launched an offensive into AA-controlled areas in southern Ponnagyun Township. When the situation deteriorated, they attempted a fighting withdrawal that devolved into a full-scale retreat,” a source close to the military said. “As the troops retreated, the AA pressed its advance. Consequently, the ROC, along with frontline battalions and medical units, is now at risk of being overrun.”

The source noted that operational setbacks have heightened anxiety among senior junta leaders, including Brigadier General Kyaw Zaw, commander of the Western Command.

The security situation has reportedly escalated to the point that helicopters remain on standby for a potential evacuation if Sittwe falls.

“Top military leaders are under immense pressure because their offensive against the AA failed, drawing severe reprimands from their superiors,” the source added. “Unable to defeat the AA on the battlefield, commanders like Kyaw Zaw are resorting to airstrikes against civilians.”

A resident told Narinjara that the military is deliberately targeting Rakhine civilians with airstrikes to pressure the Arakan Army following the collapse of its September offensive.

Subsequent attempts by junta forces to resume operations resulted in heavy casualties under AA counter-attacks, leaving the military unable to retrieve its dead.

“Clashes have continued across Sittwe Township since September 29,” the local source said. “Dozens of junta soldiers remain where they fell. Due to the constant threat of airstrikes and drone attacks, no troops have attempted to collect the bodies or retrieve abandoned weapons and ammunition.”

Local reports also indicate that the Arakan Army recently targeted the Central Ordnance Depot, an ROC-administered facility near Kyar Ma Thauk Village, roughly four to five miles from Sittwe. However, Narinjara has not independently verified these reports.