ARSA steps up activities in Maungdaw as junta intensifies airstrikes near Bangladesh border

By Admin 04 Jul 2026

DMG Newsroom

4 July 2026, Maungdaw

The Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) has increased its activities in Maungdaw Township along the Myanmar-Bangladesh border as Myanmar's military regime continues daily airstrikes across northern Arakan State, local sources said.

Since late June, the regime has carried out repeated airstrikes on Buthidaung and Maungdaw townships, both located along the Bangladesh border.

At the same time, clashes have reportedly occurred between ARSA and the Arakan Army near Meetaik Village, close to Taungpyo Letwe in northern Maungdaw Township.

"ARSA movements have increased in both the northern and southern parts of Maungdaw Township, and clashes with the Arakan Army are taking place. It appears the regime and ARSA are operating simultaneously, with one side launching airstrikes while the other advances on the ground," a border resident told DMG.

According to local sources, fighting has occurred near the Myanmar-Bangladesh border fence, where the Arakan Army is conducting security clearance operations.

During the clashes, the Arakan Army reportedly seized weapons and ammunition and captured several ARSA members.

Residents also reported an increased presence of junta naval vessels off the coast near Kyaukpandu Village in southern Maungdaw Township.

"Many junta warships have been seen near Kyaukpandu Village. Airstrikes continue almost daily, and people are increasingly worried because of both the bombings and ARSA activities," a Maungdaw resident said.

On July 2, the regime also carried out an airstrike on a prisoner of war detention site near Kyeinchaung Village, close to the Maungdaw–Taungpyo Letwe road.

Local residents said the combination of junta air and naval operations, together with ARSA's movements along the border, has heightened security concerns in the area.

Meanwhile, the Arakan Army continues mine clearance operations at former military positions and along civilian travel routes in Maungdaw Township.

The Arakan Army captured Maungdaw Township on December 8, 2024, and has since maintained control over the Myanmar-Bangladesh border while expanding security operations.