As there were civilian casualties in fighting between the military and Arakan Army (AA) in Paletwa Township, Chin State, local residents are urged to cooperate with security troops to prevent further clashes near villages, said Brigadier General Zaw Min Tun, secretary of the Tatmadaw (Military) True News Information Team.

Clashes broke out on April 7 and the fighting was sparked by AA that initiated firing at the security forces doing security duties southeast of Namada Village in Paletwa Township.

“I want to urge local people to cooperate with us. That requires them to inform us about AA movements in villages and their disturbances,” Brig-Gen Zaw Min Tun.

He said he didn’t exactly know about civilian casualties caused by fighting.

Upper House MP Hawi Tin said: “At around 4 or 5 o’clock, fighting occurred between the Myanmar military and AA. Air strikes claimed lives of seven civilians from Nanchaungwa Village. Eight were injured and a rice mill burnt down.”

Two of the eight injured are in serious condition and the remaining six can recover if they receive blood, he added.

Brig-Gen Zaw Min Tun said civilians could be injured more or less if fighting occurs near villages but the military is acting in line with the ROE (rule of engagement).

Fighting has displaced about 2,000 locals who fled to Paletwa Town areas. They are now facing difficulty with transport of food supplies as the route between Paletwa and Hsamee Village is being blocked by the military and AA.