Development Media Group - English Edition

Gunpowder factory explosion in Pansang leaves about 160 dead and injured DMG Newsroom 8 April 2026, Pansang, northern Shan State An explosion at a gunpowder factory used for storing explosives in Pansang, northern Shan State, an area controlled by the United Wa State Army UWSA, has left about 160 people dead and injured. Wa News Land reported that the explosion occurred in Yaungpang Village, Pansang, on the evening of April 7. The UWSA has not yet released the exact number of fatalities, as rescue operations are still ongoing. The impact of the explosion was reportedly worsened by the factory being located close to a fuel station. Relevant departments under the UWSA are carrying out rescue operations. It is also reported that a Chinese national who was leading the operation has been arrested. The factory was reportedly not used for weapons production but was instead producing materials for mining operations. Caption: The scene of the gunpowder factory explosion. Photo: Lu Lu #Pansang #ShanState #UWSA #FactoryExplosion #MyanmarNews

Regime launches coordinated airstrikes on Minbya Twsp with fleet of aircraft DMG Newsroom 8 April 2026, Minbya The Myanmar regime reportedly launched a coordinated aerial bombardment using a fleet of aircraft on a mountain range near Paletaung Village in Minbya Township, an area controlled by the Arakan Army in Arakan State, on the morning of April 8. A local resident said that around 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, the regime used at least four aircraft, including jet fighters and Y-12 transport aircraft, to drop more than 30 bombs in the vicinity of Paletaung Village. A local man in Minbya said, "Since this morning, about four planes have been coming and dropping bombs continuously. Both jets and Y-12 aircraft were involved in the attack. There were no fewer than 30 bombs dropped by the junta jet fighters. We do not know about casualties yet. They were circling and bombing the mountain range near the village." DMG is still working to obtain detailed information regarding the extent of damage and casualties. Military observers say that President Min Aung Hlaing and the new Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services, General Ye Win Oo, have begun using a large number of aircraft to bomb former military bases, civilians, and residential areas across Arakan State. On April 1, the regime used four jet fighters to bomb the area near Light Infantry Battalion No. 55 in Thandwe. The attack killed a displaced family of four, including two children, and injured two other children and a pregnant woman. The Arakan Army stated that the incident was the first war crime committed under the leadership of General Ye Win Oo, who was appointed as Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Services on March 30. A political observer in Arakan State said, "Doing this so openly and with such force is largely related to international changes. Specifically, it is about the lack of progress in cases filed at the ICC and ICJ. Furthermore, because this is a period of global conflict between various nations, human rights are not being prioritized. This creates a mindset where they feel they can act without consequences." He added, "It is also related to the weakening power of the United Nations. Organizations like ASEAN are in a position where they cannot do anything. It can be said they have the confidence to act recklessly because of the backing of China and Russia. They feel they do not need to consider the people. The regime has a mindset that it will do anything to remain in power." Observers also say that the regime’s use of coordinated airstrikes in Arakan State is linked to its loss of territory to the Arakan Army and the risk of losing control over the entire state. As the 17th anniversary of the Arakan Army approaches, analysts warn that the regime may increase airstrikes against civilians, and residents are urged to remain extremely cautious. In Sittwe and Kyaukphyu, the remaining areas under regime control in Arakan State, fighting remains intense. The regime is reportedly bombing areas away from active battle zones to pressure the Arakan Army to reduce its offensive. Caption: Junta fighter jets perform a training flight during an air force ceremony. Photo: MOI #Minbya #Airstrikes #ArakanState #MyanmarConflict #ArakanArmy #DMGNews

Villages near Nat Yay Kan base targeted by regime airstrikes DMG Newsroom 8 April 2026, Ngaphe, Magway Region Continuous fighting is taking place at the Nat Yay Kan hilltop base in Ngaphe Township, Magway Region, with the regime reportedly carrying out daily airstrikes on nearby villages. As the Arakan Army and allied forces intensified their offensive against the base, locals said the regime has been conducting frequent bombings on surrounding areas, including Lai Village. “The regime frequently conducts airstrikes on villages near the Nat Yay Kan hilltop base. Recently, Lai Village has been bombed the most. The regime drops bombs almost every day using either drones or jet fighters,” a local male source said. Due to the prolonged battle for the base, which has lasted for over a year, residents from several nearby villages have fled to safer areas. In recent days, the regime sent reinforcements from Padan Town to prevent the fall of the base, but they were intercepted by the Arakan Army and allied revolutionary forces. “The regime attacks both villages and random locations with heavy artillery. I heard the villagers are safe. Since the regime previously bombed villages near the Nat Yay Kan hilltop base, most residents now stay in their upland farms,” another source said. Clashes between the revolutionary allied forces and the regime continue near the base, with fighting remaining intense as the regime uses jet fighters, Y-12 aircraft, drones, and heavy artillery. The Nat Yay Kan hilltop base is located along the Arakan mountain range in Ngaphe Township, serving as a gateway to Ann Township in Arakan State. The regime is defending it fiercely as it is also a strategic entry point to Magway Region. Currently, the Arakan Army and its allies have surrounded and blocked the base, with reports indicating that some junta soldiers have been surrendering. After capturing 14 townships in Arakan State, the Arakan Army expanded its offensive into Magway, Bago, and Ayeyarwady regions in early 2025. Military and political analysts said that the security of weapons factories in Magway and Bago regions has become a growing concern due to these offensives. Caption: The Nat Yay Kan hilltop base pictured in October 2025. Photo: AK Htoo #NatYayKan #MagwayConflict #Airstrikes #ArakanArmy #MyanmarConflict #DMGNews

U Ba Shein-led RNP splits into two factions DMG Newsroom 7 April 2026, Kyaukphyu The Rakhine Nationalities Party (RNP) led by U Ba Shein, which competed in the junta-sponsored election, has reportedly split into two factions due to ideological differences among its top leaders. The split occurred as RNP Chairman U Ba Shein failed to provide transparency regarding the use of party funds and made unilateral decisions without consulting other party members. A person close to the RNP said, “The main issues leading to the disagreement at the meeting were that he made decisions only with those close to him without informing all central committee members, failed to disclose funds spent during the election period, and included individuals who are not Arakanese people into the RNP.” A party plenary meeting was held from March 22 to 23 to reorganize the RNP, which is composed of 15 Central Executive Committee members, and to redistribute duties. During that meeting, eight central committee members agreed to support a proposal to suspend Chairman U Ba Shein and Vice Chairman U Tin Nyo from their positions and appoint them as patrons instead. Furthermore, it was decided to dissolve the previous executive committee, form a new one, and hold a general party conference within the next three months. However, U Ba Shein did not accept the meeting’s decision. On April 4, he reorganized a leading committee by gathering party members close to him, which resulted in the party splitting into two factions. Another person close to the RNP said, “U Ba Shein acted like a dictator by calling those close to him and rejecting the meeting’s decision. U Ba Shein is acting out of ego, insisting that everyone must do as he says.” DMG contacted party leader U Ba Shein regarding the split within the RNP, but he has not yet responded. In the committee organized by U Ba Shein, he serves as the Chairman, with U Tin Nyo as Vice Chairman 1, U Aung Thein Htay as Vice Chairman 2, U Soe Naing Tun as Secretary, and Daw Kyaw Su Win as Joint Secretary. On the other hand, the former Central Executive Committee has reportedly sent a notification to the Union Election Commission (UEC) regarding U Ba Shein’s reorganization of the committee in defiance of the previous meeting’s decision. A local young man in Arakan State said, “For the Arakanese people who have distrusted party politics from the start, it is not surprising no matter which party splits. One thing is certain that it proves those who betray even their own party members and their promises to serve the interests of the Arakanese people are just empty words.” U Ba Shein, a lawyer, previously won two terms as a Pyithu Hluttaw representative for Kyaukphyu Township under the Rakhine Nationalities Development Party in the 2010 general elections and the Arakan National Party in the 2015 general elections, and was a top leader of the ANP. The RNP, which he led and formed, participated in the junta-organized election and won four seats in the State Hluttaw and two seats in the Union Parliament. Caption: U Ba Shein seen with RNP party members during an Arakan State Hluttaw meeting held on March 20. Photo - RNP Facebook #RNPPartySplitAndLeadershipDispute

U Than Maung nominated as Ethnic Affairs Minister and U Htein Lin as Information Minister by junta chief DMG Newsroom 8 April 2026, Sittwe Junta chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, acting as President, submitted a list of 30 individuals to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw on April 7 for appointment as Union ministers in his new government. Representatives who wish to object to or discuss the proposed nominees have been invited to register their names. The matter will be discussed and confirmed during the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw session scheduled for April 9. Among the nominees, U Than Maung, an ethnic Arakanese, has been proposed for the position of Minister of Ethnic Affairs. He is the elder brother of U Zaw Aye Maung, who previously served in the same role, and is well known among the Arakanese people. U Than Maung is a composer and singer whose songs are popular among the Arakanese community. He is also a legal expert. He has been involved in defending the military’s position in the case filed by The Gambia against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice. U Than Maung previously served as vice chairman of the Myanmar Competition Commission, a member of the Arbitration Council for labour disputes, and a member of the Myanmar Intellectual Property Central Committee. The President also nominated former Colonel U Htein Lin, who previously served as Chief Minister of Arakan State, for the position of Minister for Information. U Htein Lin, aged 66, is a former colonel from the 24th intake of the Defence Services Academy. He served as the junta-appointed Chief Minister of Arakan State from 2023 until April 2026. In addition, U Naing Oo, a representative of the Union Solidarity and Development Party, has been appointed as the Chief Minister of Arakan State. The new President, Min Aung Hlaing, has appointed loyal former military officers to key positions while surrounding himself with trusted civilians in an apparent effort to consolidate power. #JuntaCabinetReshuffleMyanmar

If I were to say that my grandmother, my mother’s mother, belongs to a generation that preserved the tradition of the kerosene lamp, it would be both fitting and accurate. She is a rural woman who was born and raised in a remote, isolated village, so remote, in fact, that she only saw and heard about electricity for the first time when she was already over 80 years old, when it was finally installed in her village. From a very young age, my grandmother became familiar with the kerosene lamp. The same lamp she knew as a child remained with her throughout her life into her years as a grandmother with grandchildren and even great-grandchildren. That is why I say she belongs to the generation that carried forward the tradition of the kerosene lamp. Yet, despite using it every day, she knew almost nothing about the oil itself where it came from, how it was extracted, who worked in the oil fields, or which countries produced it. These things did not seem important for someone like her, a village woman already in the twilight of her life. But one thing is undeniable: as long as she lived, that small kerosene lamp was essential to her existence. I still remember my childhood, when I lived with my grandmother during my primary school years, separated from my mother. My mother had to struggle alone to support our household and pay for the education of her three children. Out of both compassion for my mother and a desire to ease her burden, my grandmother decided to take me in to raise me, care for me, and support my schooling. Read more: dmediag.com/opinion/cyger.… #DMGEssay #Arakan #RakhineState #Myanmar #WarAndMemory #HumanStories #RuralLife #ConflictNarratives #EverydaySurvival #KeroseneLamp #LifeInWar

Fifty percent tax levied on liquor imported into Arakan Army-held areas DMG Newsroom 7 April 2026, Mrauk-U Merchants reported that the Arakan Army (AA) is collecting a 50 percent tax on officially permitted imports of foreign liquor, beer, and spirits into areas under its control during the Thingyan festival period. With the exception of regime-produced liquor and beer, the United League of Arakan (ULA) has officially allowed the import of foreign spirits into Arakan State from April 2 to April 10. Furthermore, the public is permitted to consume and sell these products from April 2 until May 30. A local merchant in Mrauk-U said, “The temporary permission to drink and import foreign liquor is good for those who want to consume it. However, we have to pay up to 50 percent tax on the spirits imported into Arakan State. If we buy K10 million worth of goods, we have to pay half of that as tax to the Arakan Army. The tax rate is quite expensive.” While the permission to import, distribute, and possess foreign liquor and beer during the Thingyan period is viewed as a positive development, it is noted that the tax rates remain high. In Arakan State, most locals typically consume traditional rice alcohol, but they will be allowed to drink foreign-made spirits during the Thingyan festival. A resident in Maungdaw said, “Currently in Arakan State, there is only traditional rice alcohol and no other choices. However, during the Thingyan period, the Arakan Army temporarily allowed the consumption and sale of foreign liquor. This is very good for those who have been wanting to drink it. But these liquors are quite expensive.” In the Arakan State market, a small can of ABC beer is priced between K25,000 and K30,000. Similarly, other spirits have market prices ranging from K50,000 to around K100,000. The current import permit is only temporary. Once the designated period ends, instructions state that those wishing to continue must apply to the Alcohol Control Board through their respective districts and may only proceed after receiving a license or official permit. The announcement stated that failure to comply with the prescribed rules will result in action taken according to existing laws, and violators will be blacklisted and barred from applying for licenses in the future. The ULA has banned spirits from the mainland Myanmar and foreign countries in Arakan State since December 2024. Following the ban, the sale and consumption of locally produced ginger wine, traditional rice alcohol, and fruit-mixed cocktails have become widespread. Caption: ULA officials seen inspecting for the sale of prohibited excise goods at a location in Arakan State during 2025. Photo: APM #ArakanArmy #ULA #ArakanState #MraukU #Maungdaw #LiquorTax #Thingyan2026 #ThingyanFestival #AlcoholPolicy #ImportTax #MyanmarNews #RakhineNews #DMGNews #EconomicImpact #LocalBusiness #TradeRestrictions #BorderTrade #ArakanArmyLiquorTax

Female journalists in conflict zones face mental health threats DMG Newsroom 7 April 2026, Yangon Female journalists operating in conflict-affected regions across Myanmar are facing long-term threats to their mental health due to airstrikes, heavy artillery fire, and other perilous conditions. This was highlighted in a research paper titled "Voices of Women from the Frontlines," released by Myanmar Women in Media on April 6. The report describes the situation of women living in current armed conflict areas as a complex interplay between physical safety, gender-based challenges, and physiological needs. While journalists choose to document events amidst gunfire based on the principle that "where there is danger, there is news," the report states that underlying trauma and constant anxiety pose a long-term threat to their mental wellbeing. A female journalist in Arakan State said, “When I hear the sound of jets while out reporting, I feel completely insecure. Furthermore, when covering airstrikes and seeing horrific scenes of severed limbs, my mind feels very disturbed. Having to see these things daily has led to many sleepless nights. Currently, the main insecurity is the danger from the air.” The report points out that in current conflict zones and areas controlled by revolutionary forces, incidents involving airstrikes, heavy weapons, drone strikes, landmines, unexploded ordnance, and other acts of violence have become like a part of daily life for journalists. Furthermore, an analysis of the relationship between a journalist’s duty and the inherent dangers shows that traumatic violent incidents are, ironically, what drive them to continue their work. An independent female journalist said, “Before I started this job, I couldn't even bear to look at blood. But now, after seeing and experiencing these things so often, I’ve become accustomed to the danger. The psychological impact is something that will last a lifetime. Even now, I can no longer distinguish between the sound of a plane and other noises. At the start of the war, I was afraid of dying from an airstrike. Now, because I do this job and frequently cover these events, I feel that if a bomb falls directly on me, it is just my fate, and that mindset is what gives me the courage to go out and work.” The report states that as the entire country faces the threat of airstrikes from the regime, the trauma gained through the sights and sounds of these incidents has become a long-term burden for journalists. On the other hand, for female journalists active in conflict zones, interacting with armed organizations is a situation that requires extremely careful handling. Within these relationships, journalists find themselves in a position where they must balance their reporting with the military security policies of local organizations rather than focusing solely on press freedom. The report notes that when gathering news in conflict areas, female journalists face multifaceted threats, including physical danger to their lives as well as sexual and psychological threats. Myanmar Women in Media suggested that instead of restricting female journalists from frontline reporting under the guise of safety, these challenges should be overcome by enhancing their capacities in digital security and survival techniques within danger zones. Caption: A female journalist conducting an interview with a local resident while surveying the damage after the regime’s aerial bombardment of Kyauktaw, Arakan State, on February 12, 2026. #FemaleJournalists #MentalHealthAwareness #ConflictReporting #WomenInMedia #MyanmarNews #PressFreedom #ArakanState #TraumaAwareness #JournalismInDanger #FrontlineReporting #DigitalSecurity #WomenReporters #WarZoneJournalism #DMGNews #SafetyOfJournalists

Muslim IDPs in Sittwe face hardships due to food aid reductions DMG Newsroom 7 April 2026, Sittwe Muslim internally displaced people living in camps in Sittwe Township in Arakan State are facing growing livelihood difficulties as food assistance has been reduced or cut since March. According to IDPs, the World Food Programme and its partner organizations previously provided K45,000 per person each month. However, some families have now lost support entirely, while others are receiving reduced assistance based on household size. A Muslim IDP man said that food aid reductions have affected thousands of people across Sittwe Township. He explained that some families have been completely cut off, while others receive support for fewer members than before. For example, a family of ten may now receive assistance for only six people. Sittwe Township is currently experiencing blockades and ongoing clashes, which have made it even more difficult for displaced communities to survive. IDPs also reported that they are severely affected by the impacts of conflict, lack of job opportunities, rising commodity prices, and the added burden of paying salaries for Muslim militia members. Another Muslim man said the situation is becoming critical because there are no job opportunities in Sittwe. He added that people in displacement camps rely entirely on aid for survival, but prices are rising rapidly. At the same time, families must contribute to militia payments, making their situation even more difficult. Local sources said that many Muslims in Sittwe previously depended on fishing for their livelihoods. However, fishing activities have now been banned, and restrictions on movement into the city have been tightened. Since November 2023, authorities have strictly controlled all entry and exit points by land and water in Sittwe Township. DMG has attempted to contact the World Food Programme regarding the reductions in assistance. In a statement released in March, the World Food Programme said that food aid reductions are due to a global funding crisis and the increasing number of people in need. Concerns about livelihoods are also rising among refugees in Cox’s Bazar camps in Bangladesh, where food assistance has also been reduced since April. Caption: Muslims in Sittwe Township seen in 2019. #Sittwe #ArakanState #Rakhine #IDPs #MuslimIDPs #HumanitarianCrisis #FoodAidCuts #WFP #WorldFoodProgramme #RefugeeCrisis #CrisisInMyanmar #MyanmarNews #AidReduction #DisplacementCrisis #LivelihoodCrisis #ConflictImpact #SaveIDPs #HumanRights #GlobalCrisis #CoxsBazar

ULA Agriculture Department distributes free rice seeds to farmers in Paletwa DMG Newsroom 7 April 2026, Paletwa, Chin State The Agriculture and Livestock Department under the United League of Arakan ULA is distributing free rice seeds for 100 acres of farmland to farmers in Paletwa District, an area under the control of the Arakan Army. A ceremony to distribute the rice seeds was held on April 4. The villages where the rice seeds were distributed include Leikkon, Mee Lat Wa, Tamanthar, Tein Lat Wa, See Pha Laung, and Kyet U Wa villages. In addition, paddy seeds were provided to villages in Rural Area 9, which includes Ngamyinthaung and Meiksar, as well as villages in Rural Area 6, including Aut Themawa, Seinnyinwa, Lelhla, Thuhtaygon, Seinsinwa, and Ngapwee villages, and Minkhwe Village in Rural Area 5. The ULA is actively working to promote and enhance the agricultural and livestock sectors in the areas under its control. Caption: ULA distributing rice seeds in Paletwa District on April 4, 2026. Photo: We Love Paletwa #ULAExpandsAgriculturalSupportInPaletwa

Observers say junta-sponsored election was a pre-planned move favouring USDP DMG Newsroom 7 April 2026, Mrauk-U Election observers stated that the junta-organized election lacked fairness and was conducted according to a predetermined plan that prioritized and favoured the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP). Observers noted that during the 2025 campaign period, the regime created numerous opportunities for the USDP while imposing restrictions on other parties under the pretext of security concerns. U Sein Win, Managing Director of Mizzima Media Group, shared these remarks on April 6 during the online launch of BNI’s report titled "Voters Without Choice: Analyzing Electoral Events in Myanmar’s Ethnic Areas." “The USDP was allowed to campaign using government-owned buildings, whereas other parties faced bans and obstacles cited as security measures. There were indeed significant security risks, as candidates themselves were concerned about campaigning in person. Regardless, those who organized and held this election without ensuring stability must be held accountable,” he said. He further noted that since restrictions were evident during the electoral campaign period, the election is widely viewed as a pre-planned sham. Critics pointed out that the regime's heavy reliance on advance voting and the exclusion of 35 percent of eligible voters demonstrate that the election lacks legitimacy. Observers argued that the regime’s election law, which mandates a party membership of 100,000 and the opening of offices in at least 50 townships, sets extremely difficult standards for smaller political parties. Ma Ah Me, Chairperson of BNI’s Media Development Committee, said, “Everyone is already aware that the 2025 sham election does not meet democratic standards. I want to emphasize that this is merely another process designed to rebrand military rule. By removing over 35 percent of eligible voters from the lists, dissolving opposition parties, and securing victory through non-transparent advance votes, they have failed to create anything beyond a thin veneer of legitimacy.” Four years after the coup, the regime shaped this electoral landscape as a political exit strategy, conducting the election in three phases across areas under its control. In the post-election period, junta chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing has relinquished his role as Commander in Chief of Defence Services while continuing to hold national power as President. #Myanmar #MyanmarPolitics #MyanmarElection #ShamElection #Election2025 #USDP #MilitaryJunta #WhatsHappeningInMyanmar #DemocracyInMyanmar #ElectionFraud #HumanRights #StandWithMyanmar #BNIReport #Mizzima #MinAungHlaing #PoliticalCrisis #MyanmarNews #DMGNews #FreeAndFairElection #RejectMilitaryRule

The monitoring group Progressive Voice released a report on Monday stating that the regime has carried out airstrikes on 251 schools across the country during the five years since the coup. These attacks have resulted in the deaths of 276 students and teachers, while 686 others sustained injuries. Read more: dmediag.com/news/otsbn.html #StopRegimeWarCrimes #ProtectMyanmarChildren #EducationUnderAttack #ProgressiveVoiceReport #MyanmarConflict

Major-General Zaw Min Tun missing from ceremony honouring loyal officials DMG Newsroom 6 April 2026, Nay Pyi Taw A ceremony was held in Nay Pyi Taw on April 5 to present honourary certificates to those who have served the interests of the junta chief throughout the five years since the coup. Notably, Major-General Zaw Min Tun, responsible for issuing news and statements aligned with the military leader’s directives, was not seen among the attendees. The event featured the presentation of honorary commemorative gifts to regime members, Union-level officials, Union Ministers, and Deputy Ministers. Among the recipients were Deputy Junta Chief Vice Senior General Soe Win, General Ye Win Oo, and several former generals including U Nyo Saw, U Aung Lin Dwe, U Mya Tun Oo, and Daw Thidar Oo. These individuals were honoured by the self-appointed President and Senior General Min Aung Hlaing for what was described as loyal and dutiful service during the five-year post-coup period. Furthermore, Min Aung Hlaing said that the awards were meant to record the efforts of those who worked diligently, loyally, dutifully, and blamelessly through the difficulties, dangers, and crises of the past five years. “Some who held leadership responsibilities were removed from their positions after encountering failures in duty, negligence, erratic actions, or non-compliance with procedures,” he added. Reports had previously emerged in mid-March suggesting that Major-General Zaw Min Tun, who serves as both the Deputy Minister for Information and the leader of the information team, had been retired from his military positions and duties. However, as of April 6, the Ministry of Information’s lists still identify him as Deputy Minister and leader of the information team. Major-General Zaw Min Tun has served as the Director of Public Relations and Psychological Warfare (Ka Ka Pyi) since before 2021. Following the 2021 coup, he became the Deputy Minister for Information and was appointed as the leader of the information team for the most recently formed National Defence and Security Council. Observers have also noted that Major-General Zaw Min Tun was absent from recent high-profile events, including the Armed Forces Day honourary dinner and the ceremony led by Vice Senior General Soe Win to pay respects to retired generals. The current disappearance from public view of Major-General Zaw Min Tun, the figure responsible for issuing military and civil statements on behalf of the junta chief, has become a subject of significant interest. Photo: MOI #Myanmar #ArakanState #MilitaryLeadership #ZawMinTun #Junta #InformationMinistry #PoliticalWatch #DMGNews

Regime plans grand Thingyan Festival in Sittwe to project stability DMG Newsroom 6 April 2026, Sittwe The regime is planning to host a grand Thingyan festival in Sittwe in the coming days to project an image of stability in the Arakan State capital. Local residents report that the regime is constructing two pandals at U Ottama Park and on Strand Road in Sittwe and is preparing to hold festive celebrations. A female resident of Sittwe said that although heavy artillery can often be heard in the city, people continue their daily routines and the regime is proceeding with its plans, including building Thingyan pandals and organizing dance rehearsals. Since the end of March, fighting between the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army has been occurring in Sittwe Township, with daily exchanges of heavy artillery fire from both sides. During the final week of March, intense fighting involving heavy artillery and airstrikes broke out between the Arakan Army and the Myanmar military in Sittwe Township, resulting in casualties among military personnel. Although clashes are taking place near Sittwe, local residents say the preparations for a vibrant Thingyan festival inside the city appear to be a performative effort to show that the city is stable. There are many internally displaced persons currently in Sittwe who are facing a severe livelihood crisis as they remain trapped in the city with limited assistance from the regime. Caption: A Thingyan pandal being constructed by the regime for this year's festival in Sittwe. Photo by Zaw Lin Tun #Sittwe #ThingyanFestival #ArakanState #MyanmarConflict #DMGNews

Presidential decree appoints USDP lawmaker U Naing Oo as Arakan State Chief Minister DMG Newsroom 6 April 2026, Sittwe U Naing Oo, a representative of the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), was appointed as the Chief Minister of Arakan State during a session of the Arakan State Parliament held on April 6. U Naing Oo was nominated from Nay Pyi Taw by order of Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the coup leader and current President. The appointment was confirmed by the Arakan State Parliament Speaker and USDP lawmaker Dr San Shwe, as no representatives raised any objections. U Naing Oo won his seat as a state parliament representative for Sittwe Constituency No 1 through the first past the post-election system in the junta-organized poll, leading to his current role as state Chief Minister. According to Section 261(b) of the 2008 Constitution, the President directly appoints the state Chief minister and has the authority to replace them at any time. The line of Arakan State Chief Ministers began with U Hla Maung Tin, a USDP representative elected from Ann Township, who served from January 2011 to June 2014. Military representative Major General Maung Maung Ohn then served from June 2014 to March 2016. Following him, U Nyi Pu, an National League for Democracy representative from Gwa Township, served from March 2016 to February 2021. After the military coup, the military leadership appointed Dr Aung Kyaw Min as Arakan State Chief Minister, a position he held from February 2021 to February 2023. From 2023 to April 2026, former Colonel Htein Lin served as the junta’s Chief minister. U Naing Oo has now assumed the position. At the same time, U Naing Oo has also been elected as the Chairperson of the Arakan State Parliament. Although representatives from Arakanese political parties such as Dr Aye Maung’s Arakan Front Party [AFP] and U Ba Shein’s Rakhine Nationalities Party [RNP] are present in the parliament, the USDP and the military continue to maintain dominance. The Arakan State Parliament consists of 28 seats, including 21 elected representatives and 7 military representatives. #MyanmarPolitics #ArakanState #USDP #U_Naing_Oo #Sittwe #MilitaryRule #DMGNews #RakhinePolitics

In an era when daily news from Arakan is often fragmented and fast-changing, DMG's Weekly Highlights of Arakan brings clarity, depth, and context to the stories that matter most. Each week, we round up key political, military, social, and humanitarian developments across Arakan State - connecting the dots between events and offering analysis to help audiences see the bigger picture. This series is designed for readers and viewers seeking a concise yet comprehensive understanding of how ongoing conflict, governance shifts, and community issues continue to shape lives across Arakan. Read more: dmediag.com/weekly-highlig… #ThandweAirstrikes #WarCrimes #PublicSecurity #DLEPS #Ponnagyun #WaterScarcity

Photo News: Small-scale brown slab sugar industry in Taungup struggles amid economic downturn DMG Newsroom 6 April 2026, Taungup Business owners in Arakan State report that the regional economy is facing a severe downturn due to the regime’s ongoing blockades. Despite these challenges, small-scale local industries are striving to sustain their operations. Among them is the traditional brown slab sugar industry in the Kintaw area of Taungup Township, which is currently under the control of the Arakan Army. The Kintaw area has around 100 brown slab sugar production kilns, each employing five to seven local workers and providing livelihoods for hundreds of residents. However, the ongoing armed conflict has severely disrupted trade. Producers are no longer able to export their goods to key markets across Arakan State or to the Bangladesh border. As a result, brown slab sugar is piling up in warehouses, with sales limited to nearby townships. Before the recent escalation of fighting, one viss of brown slab sugar was sold for between K7,000 and K25,000. At present, the price has dropped to around K4,500 per viss, making it difficult for producers to cover rising cultivation and labor costs. Business owners are calling for the opening of new market channels to ensure stable sales and the long-term survival of the industry. Caption: Small-scale brown slab sugar production kiln in the Kintaw area of Taungup Township seen in the second week of March 2026. Website link > dmediag.com/photo-essay/ss… #TaungupEconomyCrisis #ArakanLocalIndustryStruggles #JaggeryProductionDecline

Bangladesh’s political landscape entered an extraordinary turning point in 2026. The fall of the Sheikh Hasina government, which had dominated power for nearly two decades, not only reshaped Bangladesh but also disrupted the geopolitical balance across South Asia. For India in particular, this meant the loss of one of its closest regional partners. Relations between Dhaka and New Delhi have since entered a period of marked strain. In this context, the rise of a new BNP-led government under Tarique Rahman has not only begun redefining India-Bangladesh relations, but has also brought neighboring Myanmar’s Arakan (Rakhine State) into play as a new strategic variable. Read more: dmediag.com/opinion/bnfpg.… #Bangladesh #India #Arakan #RakhineState #Geopolitics #SouthAsia #ForeignPolicy #RohingyaCrisis #ArakanArmy #IndoPacific #DMGAnalysis

Junta commander comforts wounded soldiers in Sittwe DMG Newsroom 4 April 2026, Sittwe Maj-Gen Kyaw Swar Oo, commander of the Western Command in Sittwe, Arakan State, visited officers and soldiers receiving medical treatment in the city. According to a report in the junta-controlled Myanmar Alin daily on April 4, the commander offered words of encouragement to soldiers and their family members receiving treatment at military hospitals in Sittwe, a city located in the conflict zone. The commander and other officials also provided food supplies and cash rewards to the soldiers after offering words of encouragement. A young military observer in Arakan State said, “This is not surprising. Since Sittwe is the regime’s last stronghold in Arakan State, they will have to defend it desperately. I view this as a way of providing small comforts and incentives to the deceased and the wounded. It also serves as a way to encourage their troops to fight to the death following the recent intense battles.” In the last week of March, heavy fighting involving artillery and airstrikes broke out between the Arakan Army and the Myanmar military in Sittwe Township, resulting in casualties on the junta side. The state-owned daily subsequently reported that the commander inspected the wounded junta soldiers currently receiving treatment at the military hospital. Ground sources said both sides exchanged heavy artillery fire throughout the day on March 26, and some officers were killed when shells exploded at certain military positions. On March 27, the regime carried out airstrikes on Ponnagyun and Rathedaung Townships. A Sittwe resident said that it is currently quiet in Sittwe with no firing from either side and no sounds of explosions. He mentioned that it is unclear if this is because the Thingyan festival is approaching, but noted that it is impossible to predict when the firing might resume. Battles in Sittwe have been ongoing since early 2025, with periods of intensity and temporary pauses. Residents say that the conflict in Sittwe consists more of daily exchanges of artillery and drone fire rather than ground offensives. In Myanmar, daily clashes between junta troops and ethnic armed organizations are occurring in Arakan and Kachin States, as well as Sagaing and Bago Regions. The April 4 issue of the Myanmar Alin daily reported that military commanders provided food supplies to wounded personnel receiving treatment at military hospitals in conflict areas such as Sittwe, Myitkyina, Monywa, and Taungoo. Caption: Military officials visiting junta soldiers receiving medical treatment in Sittwe in May 2025. Photo: MRTV. #SittweConflict #JuntaMilitarySupport #ArakanStateNews

Myanmar becomes country with highest number of landmine casualties globally DMG Newsroom 4 April 2026, Yangon Myanmar has been identified as the country with the highest number of casualties caused by landmines globally in 2024, according to the 2025 Landmine Monitor report. In 2024, a total of 6,279 people were killed or injured by landmines and explosive remnants of war in Myanmar, marking the highest casualty rate since 2020. Following Myanmar, Syria recorded the second highest number of casualties with 1,015 people affected. Afghanistan reported 624 casualties and Ukraine had 293 casualties. Since most people in Myanmar rely on agriculture and livestock farming which requires traveling into forests and mountains, they face the greatest risk from landmines. Men working in farming, livestock, and forestry, as well as internally displaced persons and people returning to their homes, are the primary groups at risk. Casualties caused by locally manufactured mines reached 2,077 people, and casualties from factory produced mines have tripled compared to figures from 2020. The report mentions that two more countries joined the Mine Ban Treaty in 2025, bringing the total number of member states to 166. Mine clearance operations in 2024 covered a total area of 1,114 square kilometers, resulting in the destruction of 105,640 anti-personnel mines. However, landmine threats persist in 57 countries worldwide, and 32 countries have yet to complete their mine clearance processes. Since 2024, only five countries have successfully completed their mine clearance operations, indicating that much work remains. The report highlights that landmine awareness education is a crucial part of prevention efforts, and member states responsible for mine clearance have been conducting awareness programs. The 2025 Landmine Monitor report urges countries to join and cooperate with the Mine Ban Treaty, as landmines and unexploded remnants of war continue to threaten the lives of the public. Caption: A landmine awareness sign installed in Rathedaung Township, Arakan State. Photo: APM. #MyanmarLandmineCrisis #MineAwareness #ArakanState #GlobalMineCasualties #HumanitarianAlert