Intense Clash in Kyaukphyu, Rakhine: Junta General Killed, Multiple Positions Captured by Arakan Army

International Desk

Rakhine, May 30, 2025: In Myanmar’s Rakhine State, intense clashes between the Arakan Army (AA) and the junta forces in the strategic port city of Kyaukphyu have resulted in the death of a top junta general. The rebels have seized multiple positions of the junta forces, including critical areas near the Chinese investment hub in Kyaukphyu.

According to local media reports, heavy fighting is ongoing near the village of Pyain Si Kai along the Kyaukphyu-Ramree road. This area, located just 5 kilometers south of Kyaukphyu town, has seen the Arakan Army encircle a junta headquarters. Reports of clashes have also emerged from areas near China’s oil and gas terminals.

On Monday, May 26, Brigadier General Kyao Myo Aung and an army captain were killed in a sniper attack by the Arakan Army. The 45-year-old Kyao Myo Aung was a strategist in the 11th Division. His body was sent to Yangon by a special aircraft and was buried on Thursday at Mingaladon Military Cemetery. His family stated that he died in the line of duty.

The junta government has deployed ground, naval, and air forces to protect Kyaukphyu. However, local sources indicate that the situation is increasingly slipping out of control. The Irrawaddy reported that members of private security forces engaged in China’s Belt and Road Initiative project are assisting junta forces with drone attacks.

In February of this year, the junta government passed a law allowing Chinese security forces to carry weapons in Myanmar to protect their investments. Since then, the presence of Chinese personnel in Kyaukphyu has increased. China is constructing a deep-sea port in Kyaukphyu to secure its access to the Indian Ocean. Additionally, China’s oil and gas pipeline begins in Kyaukphyu and extends to Yunnan Province.

Local media have reported that as the fighting nears the town, many junta administrators are fleeing Kyaukphyu. The conflict could have significant implications for Kyaukphyu’s strategic importance and the security of Chinese investments.