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Conflict increasing in Rakhine State, displacing thousands

Countries
Myanmar
Sources
ECHO
Publication date
Origin
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Armed clashes between the Arakan Army (AA) and the Myanmar Military intensified again in Rakhine State on 4 March. As a result of fighting and the volatile situation on the ground, more than 3 200 people from several villages have been displaced. There are reports that displacement continues, with people are staying mainly in monasteries or with host families. Clashes between the AA and the Myanmar Military in this area started on 19 and 22 February and caused the displacement of more than 800 people. While about 300 of the IDPs (internally displaced persons) were able to rapidly return to their homes, nearly 450 of them are still displaced. The cumulative number of IDPs in this area now stands at around 3 700.

Local civil society organisations and host communities are providing basic assistance to the displaced population. A few development partners had to put activities on hold due to security concerns. The humanitarian community continues collecting information on the ongoing response and possible outstanding needs. OCHA has been closely following up with the Rakhine State Government on possibilities for the response. It is coordinating with humanitarian partners to organize a multi-sectoral mission to one of the affected areas on 9 March, should the travel authorization request be approved by the authorities.