Junta replaces Arakan State security minister amid escalating battles near Sittwe

By Admin 22 Oct 2026

DMG Newsroom

22 October 2026, Sittwe

The military junta has replaced its Arakan State Security and Border Affairs Minister amid escalating fighting near Sittwe, according to an announcement dated October 22.

Under the reported changes, Colonel Zaw Lin Tun was appointed to replace outgoing minister Colonel Kyaw Thura.

The announcement also listed changes to Security and Border Affairs Ministers in six other states and regions. Colonel Naung Latt was named to replace Colonel Than Soe Aung in Kayah State; Colonel Min Thein replaced Colonel Win Tin Soe in Sagaing Region; Colonel Naing Zin Tun replaced Colonel Moe Min Thein in Magway Region; Colonel Ye Htut replaced Colonel Kyaw Swar Myint in Mon State; Colonel Kyaw Kyaw Oo replaced Colonel Win Tint in Yangon Region; and Colonel Kyaw Myo Min Latt replaced Colonel Sein Win in Shan State.

Fierce clashes continue between junta forces and the Arakan Army (AA) near Sittwe, where AA offensives have advanced toward positions near the Regional Operations Command (ROC), according to local reports.

The reported ministerial change comes as the junta faces mounting military pressure near Sittwe. It remains unclear how the incoming minister, Colonel Zaw Lin Tun, will manage security operations amid the escalating conflict in Arakan State.