By Kan Htun / MPA
Maungdaw, Myanmar — Conflicting reports have emerged from the volatile Myanmar-Bangladesh border, where local sources describe a deadly pre-dawn clash between the Arakan Army (AA) and Rohingya insurgents, a claim the armed group has vehemently denied.
Residents in northern Maungdaw Township reported intense fighting breaking out around 03:30 local time on Sunday (January 11) on Kyi Island, located in the Naf River which divides the two countries.
According to local witnesses, the clash occurred when members of the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) attempted to cross the border, engaging with Arakan Army troops who had recently reinforced positions in the area.
“The fighting was severe,” a local source told MPA. “It took place on an island within the Naf River. We understand that ARSA suffered significant losses, with between 30 and 40 members killed. Some survivors were seen fleeing towards the Bangladesh side.”
Witnesses added that some insurgents who crossed back into Bangladesh were subsequently detained by the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB). Gunfire was reportedly audible for hours across a stretch of the border near pillars 35 through 46.
However, in a statement released late Sunday, ARSA categorically rejected reports that its forces were involved in border skirmishes over the past 48 hours.
The group stated that no ARSA units, battalions, or columns were present at the locations where the fighting was reported. Instead, ARSA accused the Arakan Army of violating international law by launching cross-border attacks using drones and RPGs into Bangladeshi territory, alleging these strikes killed civilians.
While denying operations in Maungdaw, the group did acknowledge ongoing combat with the AA in the neighboring Buthidaung region.
ARSA maintained that it operates solely within Rakhine State and does not maintain bases on the “Zero Line” or within Bangladesh.
The incident underscores the growing complexity of the conflict in Rakhine State. The Arakan Army, which has seized control of much of the region from the military junta, frequently clashes with various Rohingya armed factions, including ARSA, RSO, and the ARA.
Local communities have increasingly accused these groups of targeting civilians through kidnappings, extortion, and ambushes—charges the groups deny.
Independent verification of casualty figures and specific troop movements in the border zone remains difficult due to restricted access.
