Myanmar rebels says dozens of junta forces surrender, captured
The Hindu
Dozens of members of the Myanmar security forces have surrendered or been captured, a rebel group said, as a coordinated offensive by insurgent groups battling the junta gathers pace in several parts of the country. At least 28 policemen gave up their weapons and surrendered to the Arakan Army, while 10 soldiers were arrested, said the group which is fighting for autonomy in Rakhine State in western Myanmar.
Dozens of members of the Myanmar security forces have surrendered or been captured, a rebel group said on November 15, as a coordinated offensive by insurgent groups battling the junta gathers pace in several parts of the country.
At least 28 policemen gave up their weapons and surrendered to the Arakan Army (AA), while 10 soldiers were arrested, said the group which is fighting for autonomy in Rakhine State in western Myanmar.
Reuters could not independently verify the information from the AA, which is one of three ethnic minority insurgent groups that launched a coordinated offensive against junta forces in late October.
“A curfew has been imposed in the Rakhine State capital Sittwe, where military tanks have been sighted,” the administration there said.
The rebels have captured some towns and military posts, including on the border with China, presenting the junta with its biggest test since the military took power in a 2021 coup, ousting an elected government led by Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi.
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A junta spokesperson, Zaw Min Tun, on November 14 accused the rebel groups of "destroying the whole country" and said reports of captured military posts were "propaganda".