Arakan Army releases 70 prisoners of war

By Admin 23 Sep 2025

DMG Newsroom

23 September 2025, Thandwe

The Arakan Army (AA) on Sunday released 70 prisoners of war captured during the battles for control of Thandwe and Gwa in Arakan State.

They were released on September 21 after voluntarily surrendering to the Arakan Army along with their weapons and ammunition, and were paid K1 million each and signed a pledge not to serve in the Myanmar military.

The Arakan Army is frequently releasing groups of prisoners of war and family members captured during battles for control of towns in Arakan State.

"I think the Arakan Army is showing humanity by releasing prisoners even during this fighting," said a young man in Kyauktaw.

The Arakan Army also ceremonially released a total of 458 prisoners of war and family members captured during the battles for control of Taungup and Buthidaung on August 9 and May 18.

During the latest fighting in Arakan State, the Arakan Army has captured thousands of prisoners of war.

According to data compiled by DMG, the total number of prisoners of war and family members released by the Arakan Army has reached nearly 1,900.

"This is a good move. The Arakan Army also shows the value of a revolutionary group. It is something that should be done in practice. I see the Arakan Army being pragmatic in both words and deeds," said a social activist in Arakan State.

The Arakan Army also said that it is taking care of thousands of prisoners of war, including those who surrendered, defected, and were captured during battles for control of towns, in accordance with international military law.

Fighting between the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army is intense in Kyaukphyu and Bago, Magway, and Ayeyarwady regions, which border the Arakan State. The Arakan Army has urged junta soldiers to raise the white flag.