Arakan Army Captures Hundreds of NPA Soldiers in Major Offensive

The Arakan Army (AA) has intensified its offensive against the Western Military Council (NPA), resulting in the capture of hundreds of NPA soldiers during an attack on its headquarters in Ann Township, Rakhine State. On December 17, the AA revealed the scale of their success, releasing a video showing captured NPA soldiers and their families, bound and detained. The AA issued a clear warning to remaining soldiers: “Raise the white flag early if you want to live.”

The video, which runs for 1 minute and 41 seconds, depicts the harrowing conditions on the battlefield, with NPA buildings ablaze and severely damaged. Among those captured are the families of NPA members, adding a layer of urgency to the AA’s warning. “The sooner you surrender, the sooner you will be reunited with your family,” the AA stated in their message.

The assault on the NPA headquarters began on the night of December 16, with reports showing increasing numbers of soldiers surrendering and raising white flags to ensure their survival. The AA has reportedly captured many wounded soldiers, further weakening the NPA’s position in the region.

The Arakan Army is now preparing for the complete capture of the last NPA strongholds in Ann Township and Gu Township. If the AA succeeds, it will mark the loss of the second regional command for the Military Council. Earlier in August, the Northeastern Regional Command in Lashio fell to the combined forces of the MMDAA and allied groups, making this a significant turning point in Myanmar’s military history.

The fall of Ann Township would deliver a devastating blow to the Military Council, highlighting the growing strength and strategic advancements of the Arakan Army. With tensions escalating, the AA continues to assert dominance in the region, reshaping the power dynamics in Rakhine St