Junta warships patrol Thandwe coast, raising local fears

By Admin 11 Jul 2026

DMG Newsroom

11 July 2026, Thandwe

At least four junta warships have been moving in waters off the coast of Thandwe Township and surrounding areas, raising concerns among local residents.

According to local sources, the four naval vessels sailed north from the Ayeyarwady coast along the Gwa coastline on 8 July and are currently patrolling waters near Maung Shwe Lay Beach and Ngapali Beach in Thandwe Township.

"The junta warships can be seen moving faintly out at sea, far from the shore. They came from the Ayeyarwady side. We have not seen them patrolling like this here before. It is still unclear whether they will remain here or continue north toward Kyaukphyu," a local source in Thandwe said.

Observers said the naval forces could be heading to reinforce junta positions in the ongoing Kyaukphyu conflict or may be operating near the Thandwe coast to intimidate local residents.

The Arakan Army previously said that the military junta, which has lost many outposts and bases across the region, has repeatedly carried out airstrikes and naval artillery attacks on civilian areas in Gwa Township, which is also under the control of the Arakan Army.

The presence of the warships near the Thandwe coast has left coastal residents concerned about possible artillery attacks.

"Everyone is worried that the junta warships might fire heavy artillery shells toward the land. Because of this, coastal communities are staying alert. Fortunately, no shelling has occurred so far," another resident said.

The military junta has frequently used naval vessels to launch heavy artillery attacks on Gwa and Thandwe townships in southern Arakan State, according to locals.

Residents said the regime has used its naval presence to intimidate communities in areas where it has lost control.