The military has denied that its troops set fire to two villages in Kyauktaw Township, Rakhine State, adding that it is carrying out counter terrorism operations against Arakan Army (AA) in accord with the rules of engagement.

Brigadier General Zaw Min Tun from the Tatmadaw (Military) True News Information Team was responding to the question of a reporter about the incident during a press conference held at Defence Services Museum in Nay Pyi Taw on September 4.

Some local media reported that fighting broke out between the military and AA in Kyauktaw Township on the night of September 3. A military column reportedly set fire to Phayabaung and Taungpauk villages destroying about 250 homes.

Brig-Gen Zaw Min Tun said two incidents occurred in Rakhine State on September 3 with each in Kazugaing and Kyuaktaw. As usual, there had been accusations against the military, he commented.

“Our military is carrying out counter terrorism operations in Rakhine State. We are doing this in line with ROE. Responding to the question, I would say that we categorically deny that (the incineration),” he said.

Due to the AA group’s mine attacks, a policeman was wounded while the army troops was escorting some police who were going Sittway to Apaukwa Police Station in Kyauktaw on the evening of September 3, he added.

After sending the police to their station, the military troops returned and confronted the AA group again. Then, fighting broke out and the bodies of two AA members and a gun were seized, he said.