ULA issues order urging Arakanese residents to remain vigilant against airstrikes

By Admin 14 Mar 2026

DMG Newsroom

14 March 2026, Mrauk-U

The administrative department of the United League of Arakan (ULA) has issued a local order urging residents in areas controlled by the Arakan Army (AA) to remain highly vigilant against the increasing threat of airstrikes, according to local sources.

On March 12, awareness activities were carried out in Mrauk-U, including the installation of warning signs and mobile public announcements via loudspeakers to alert residents about aerial threats.

In Mrauk-U, the order instructs residents to refrain from using bright electric lights between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. It also requires households to construct bomb shelters and urges residents to sleep on the ground floor of their homes whenever possible.

The order further prohibits loud noises from vehicles such as motorcycles and cars that could drown out the sound of approaching aircraft. It also bans the loud use of amplifiers and the holding of festivals or ceremonies that draw large crowds.

Residents are also encouraged to report any suspicious individuals near their neighborhoods or villages to the nearest administrative offices, security outposts, or party offices.

Local residents said the announcement comes as the military regime has stepped up airstrikes on townships controlled by the Arakan Army in Arakan State in recent days.

“This announcement is good for public safety. Planes fly over every night. Sometimes when we are listening for them, motorcycles passing by with loud exhausts make it impossible to focus. It’s also making the children increasingly terrified,” said a male resident of Mrauk-U.

In several townships under Arakan Army control, nighttime airstrikes and reconnaissance drone flights have become more frequent. Early warning systems for aerial threats have therefore been implemented in some areas.

Observers noted that as the festival season approaches, authorities need to closely monitor public gatherings to reduce the risk of casualties from potential airstrikes.

“With the current season of novitiation and wedding ceremonies, people are gathering. While we aren’t suggesting a total ban on donations, the public must be cautious. Everyone has seen how the junta targets crowded places. Authorities need to gradually manage and regulate these events for safety,” said a female resident of Minbya.

The military regime has been carrying out daily bombing raids on townships under Arakan Army control, leading to a steady rise in civilian casualties.

On March 12 at around 10 p.m., the regime used a jet fighter to bomb the Kispanadi Bridge in Kyauktaw, causing structural damage.

Earlier, on March 8, the junta deployed eight aircraft to conduct a three-hour bombing raid on an Arakan Army-run prisoner-of-war (POW) camp in the Darlatchaung area of Ann Township, killing 116 POWs and injuring 32 others.

Analysts say that given the continuing aerial attacks across Arakan State, residents must remain highly vigilant and strictly follow precautionary measures.