Arakan Army (AA) columns have recently moved into several townships in southern Chin State causing concerns to the residents living there.

According to residents, AA columns have entered the townships of Paletwa, Mindat, Kanpetlet, and Matupi, all in southern Chin State, north of Rakhine (Arakan) State.

A fighter from the Matupi People's Defence force (PDF) said:“ We have reached a mutual understanding with the AA troops, allowing them to travel within our territory. However, we have made it clear to them that they should refrain from sleeping and camping in villages.”

Despite any such agreements the appearance of the AA troops in southern Chin State has alarmed locals who fear it will lead to an increase in violence and ethnic conflict in the areas where they are stationed.

A Matupi resident said: “There were AA troops sleeping on the side of the Matupi Road. Initially, I mistook them for the [Myanmar] military army and I was ready to flee. Later I noticed that they were wearing AA logos. I do not to live in fear of either the [Myanmar] military army or the AA troops. Additionally, I want to know the reasons why the AA is setting up encampments on Chin land instead of remaining in Rakhine [State].”

According to a political analyst from Chin State, AA troops have reportedly established a presence in nearly all townships within southern Chin State.

They said: “It has been nearly ten years since the AA troops first established their presence in Paletwa, Chin State. However, following the military coup, the troops expanded their presence to include Kanpetlet and Mindat townships, organizing themselves by battalion. Additionally, AA troops have also arrived at Lalengpi, which is a border area between Matupi and India. This issue will potentially lead to future conflicts between the Chin and Rakhine communities after the revolution.”

On 7 March 2020, the Chin National Front (CNF) issued a statement urging the AA to refrain from using Chin State as a military camp for its operations.