Junta tightens security, closes banks in Kyaukphyu

By Admin 18 Nov 2024

DMG Newsroom
18 November 2024, Kyaukphyu

With the Arakkha Army (AA) intensifying its offensive for control of Ann Town, which hosts the Myanmar military’s Western Command, the regime has heightened security and shut down private banks in neighbouring Kyaukphyu.

Residents of Kyaukphyu reported that all private banks, including KBZ, CB, and Global Treasure Bank, have been closed since November 15, with more junta troops deployed in the town.

Locals expressed concerns that the halt of banking operations might weaken cash flow in the area, potentially impacting various sectors including small businesses and healthcare.

“The military has adopted more security measures, which is one of the reasons why the regime has shut down banks,” said a resident of Kyaukphyu.

The regime has reportedly fortified Light Infantry Battalion Nos. 542 and 543, located outside Kyaukphyu Town, with fences made of sharpened bamboo sticks. It has done the same to Infantry Battalion No. 34 near Kyaukphyu Airport.

“The regime erected another fence with sharpened bamboo sticks some 10 feet from the brick walls of those battalions,” said another resident.

According to 2019 data from the General Administration Department (GAD), Kyaukphyu is made up of 17 wards with more than 5,000 households and a population exceeding 25,000.

Kyaukphyu, a district-level town located on the Bay of Bengal’s eastern shore, is surrounded by rivers and streams, making it difficult for residents to flee if fighting breaks out.

“It’s not easy to flee if fighting starts. We have concerns after seeing those preparations,” said a female resident of Kyaukphyu.

Home to a China-backed special economic zone, deep-sea port project and twin oil and gas pipelines, Kyaukphyu is crucial for the regime as it seeks to maintain its hold on an economic lifeline from Beijing.