A fierce clash between the Myanmar military and Arakan Army (AA) has prompted thousands of civilians to flee their homes in 10 villages during exchanges of gunfire in war-stricken Rakhine state, RFA reported.

About 5,000 people who have fled their villages in Minbya township since July 27, when military units entered their communities, are now living in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. Others are staying temporarily with relatives or have camped out in forests, they said.

The fighting began July 28 and has continued until now, it was not immediately clear if there were any casualties.