Hsu/Munich (NSS) – Dec 26

The conflict in Mrauk-U, Rakhine State, has escalated leading to the destruction of the Anandacandra Stone Inscription by the explosion of heavy weapons.

Tensions between the Myanmar Military and the Rakhine insurgent AA have been escalating in the vicinity of Mrauk-U Township since the AA is launching attacks on security outposts in and around Mrauk-U.

On December 24th, the Mrauk-U District Police Station was assaulted by the AA. 

It has been reported that hostilities persist in Mrauk-U, with incidents occur every day. The opposing forces have not withdrawn, and there have also been reported incidents of drop-bomb attacks. The intensity of the hostilities has been particularly severe since around midnights.

Furthermore, on the morning of December 25th, clashes erupted between the Myanmar Military and the AA, resulting in the destruction of the Mrauk-U Museum of Ancient Heritage. 

Deputy Director Nyo Myint Tun of the Department of Archaeology and National Museum informed NSS, stating, "Our primary focus is on preserving Mrauk-U's ancient cultural heritage. This morning, around 5 a.m., heavy weapon shells fell and exploded due to ongoing hostilities. We've secured the movable items from the museum. Regarding this explosion, the source remains unknown. Regrettably, the replica of the Anandacandra Stone Inscription was destroyed."

Despite the destruction caused by the explosion of heavy artillery, while the replica of the Anandacandra Stone Inscription and certain museum infrastructures were damaged, some of the ancient heritage items within the museum remain unharmed. 

Nyo Myint Tun further expressed, "Ancient heritage holds immense value, and it is crucial to handle them with utmost care. I believe nobody wishes to witness such conditions. Given their historical significance, the loss is deeply saddening."

At present, the hostilities in Mrauk-U have resulted in the death of at least five civilians, with many others sustaining injuries.

A local resident of Mrauk-U, Aung Than Tun, shared with NSS, "The entire township is enduring the impact of heavy artillery shells, not just at the museum but also on civilian rooftops. Nearly everyone in town is fleeing for safety. Personally, I had to leave my home yesterday as heavy weaponry shells were hitting nearly every area in town."

Since November 13th, armed conflicts have resumed in Rakhine State between the Myanmar Military and the Rakhine insurgent AA.