Kyauktaw and Mrauk-U residents live in fear after junta airstrikes

By Admin 14 Feb 2026

DMG Newsroom

14 February 2026, Kyauktaw, Arakan State

Residents of Kyauktaw and Mrauk-U, areas currently under the control of the Arakan Army (AA), are facing heightened security concerns following a series of junta airstrikes that killed seven people, including children, and injured 16 others. Several homes were also destroyed.

The military regime carried out the aerial bombardments in the late hours of February 12, targeting civilian-populated areas in both towns.

Local residents described a profound sense of insecurity as the military increasingly targets non-military areas.

“There is immense fear. We have to remain vigilant at all times because we never know when they will strike next. It has reached a point where we are constantly terrified of when and where we might die. There is no safety at all. Even if you survive one bombing, the trauma of whether you will survive the next one is overwhelming,” said a woman from Paikthae Ward in Kyauktaw.

The constant threat has forced many residents to temporarily relocate, severely disrupting daily life and livelihoods. Some are forced to risk their lives simply to maintain essential activities.

“The sense of insecurity is permanent. We are constantly searching for safer places while wondering where the next bomb will fall. Hatred for the junta is growing—everyone is living in a state of part-terror, part-loathing. Some stay extremely cautious, while others risk their lives just to go about their business,” a local man in Kyauktaw said.

In Mrauk-U, residents reported sleepless nights and anxiety over potential follow-up attacks.

“The junta uses the presence of the Arakan Army as a pretext to kill civilians in every airstrike. We have no way to defend ourselves. Even walking down the street, you are constantly looking up, fearing a jet fighter might appear. Since they are primarily targeting towns, villages, and public gatherings, our anxiety is at an all-time high,” a female resident said.

While many wish to flee to safer regions, economic hardship and the struggle for survival have forced them to remain in high-risk areas.

Conflict between the Arakan Army and the military regime has persisted in Arakan State for over two years.

Facing setbacks nationwide, the junta increasingly targets civilians with airstrikes, causing severe physical and psychological trauma, including among children.