Sam S

Clashes Break Out Between ARSA and ARA/RSO Near the Rakhine-Bangladesh Border AB News – May 2, 2026 Fighting reportedly broke out between the Muslim armed groups ARSA and ARA/RSO in an area along the Rakhine-Bangladesh border, according to reports published by Bangladeshi media outlet TT News. The exchange of fire reportedly occurred at around 5:00 a.m. on May 1 near the zero line between Border Pillars 19 and 20, approximately two kilometers east of the border area under the Palangkhali BOP of Bangladesh Border Guard Battalion 64 (BGB). According to reports, both sides exchanged heavy weapons fire during the clashes, with an estimated 200 to 250 rounds fired, causing panic and fear among residents living in nearby border areas. At the same time, local residents living around the Palangkhali BOP area and surrounding border communities were reportedly fleeing the area out of fear due to the fighting. Bangladesh Border Guard (BGB) officials stated that they are closely monitoring the situation following the incident. Relevant authorities also said efforts are being made to stabilize the border situation and strengthen security monitoring along the frontier.