Rakhine State, 05 July 2024 - The Arakan Army (AA) has captured all military positions, including Border Guard Police (BGP) bases, in the north and south of Maungdaw in Myanmar's Rakhine state. The group has now demanded the surrender of the last junta base in the city, according to a report by Myanmar media outlet Irrawaddy on Thursday.

The only remaining junta stronghold is BGP Battalion 5 in Maungdaw's Mayo Thugi Ward. A significant battle is ongoing for control of this base. The Arakan Army has besieged Battalion 5, deploying sniper units and other fighters in the city to intensify the siege. The Arakan Army continues to fight to rescue residents from the conflict zone, while the junta forces continue artillery attacks, supported by BGP Battalion 5's artillery unit.

The Arakan Army is also on the verge of capturing Thandwe town in Rakhine. They need to overcome only one remaining infantry battalion to take full control. Since launching an offensive in November last year, the Arakan Army has gained control over more than half of Rakhine state.

Fierce battles are also taking place in Lashio, the capital of northern Shan State, between the Myanmar army and insurgent groups. The Three Brotherhood Alliance, a coalition of rebel groups, is attacking five military bases simultaneously. The conflict has led to significant civilian casualties, including the death of six family members, two of whom were children, after a bomb hit their house on Wednesday morning. Due to the ongoing clashes, all flights to Lashio have been canceled.

The situation in both Rakhine and Shan states remains volatile, with the Arakan Army making significant advances in Rakhine and rebel groups intensifying their efforts in Shan State. The humanitarian impact of these conflicts continues to grow, with many civilians caught in the crossfire.