02 Oct 2019 | 05:26 PM UTC
Myanmar: Mortar explosions leave five wounded in Rakhine state October 1
Mortar explosions leave five wounded in Rakhine state on October 1; similar attacks possible over the near term
Event
Five people were wounded when artillery shells exploded near a monastery in Kyauktaw township (Rakhine state) at approximately 01:00 (local time) on Tuesday, October 1. The explosions came amid fighting between the military and Arakan Army (AA) militants in the area.
Similar incidents are possible in Rakhine state over the near term.
Context
Violence resumed in early December 2018 between Rakhine separatists and the military. The Arakan Army seeks greater autonomy for Buddhists in Rakhine state. According to the Myanmar office of the UN Office for the Coordination of Human Affairs (OCHA), about 7500 displaced people are scattered across 29 sites in Rakhine due to violence and 730,000 people in neighboring Bangladesh.
Advice
Individuals in Rakhine state are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant and military activity, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.
Travelers are advised to avoid all but essential travel to Rakhine state, except the southern townships of Kyaukpyu, Ramree, Munaung, Toungup, Thandwe (including the tourist resort of Ngapali), and Gwa.
