Ponnagyun, Arakan
Fighting along the Sittwe-Ponnagyun border entered its 13th consecutive day on September 16, with ground clashes, artillery fire and airstrikes continuing across several areas.
The fighting began on September 4. Local sources reported continued clashes near Wahbo in Sittwe Township and around Yae Yoe Pyin, Sa Pot Taung and other villages in Ponnagyun Township. Independent reports also confirmed sustained fighting and heavy artillery exchanges during the second week of the offensive.
Local residents said fighter jets conducted bombing runs near Ponnagyun Town after noon on September 16. They reported strikes near mountainous areas and villages. However, the exact number of aircraft involved could not be independently confirmed.
Ground fighting has also continued near several frontline areas. Local sources reported clashes around Yae Yoe Pyin, Sa Pot Taung and Wahbo. Narinjara separately reported fighting near the Shwe Min Gan naval base and the Min Chaung Bridge area.
The offensive has involved multiple military columns. Development Media Group reported on September 12 that around 1,000 junta troops had been deployed in five columns along the Sittwe-Ponnagyun front. The reported deployment covered areas near Minchaung Bridge, Wahbo, Minhla and Myitnar, as well as several locations inside Ponnagyun Township.
The fighting has also created a growing civilian displacement problem. Thousands of residents from Ponnagyun and nearby Rathedaung areas have reportedly fled their homes as artillery and airstrikes intensified. Local reports said shelling affected villages and areas around Ponnagyun Town.
The strategic importance of Ponnagyun has added pressure to the fighting. The town sits on the route connecting Sittwe with areas farther north. Reports say junta forces have attempted to advance toward Ponnagyun while facing resistance from the terrorist Arakan Army (AA).
The terrorist Arakan Army (AA) has maintained defensive positions around the area. Meanwhile, junta forces have used ground troops alongside artillery, drones, naval fire and combat aircraft during the wider offensive.
Civilian casualties from the September 16 airstrikes remain unconfirmed. Earlier attacks during the same offensive have caused reported civilian injuries and displacement, showing the wider humanitarian pressure created by the fighting.
The battle around Ponnagyun therefore remains active after nearly two weeks. Ground clashes and long-range attacks continue, while civilians in nearby communities face repeated displacement and security risks.
