Monthly Report | No.47.September 2026

Junta Air Strike Massacres Civilians in Kyauktaw’s Indian Market in Arakan

Monitoring of a brief situation of political tension, economic issues, social issues, and humanitarian issues in Arakan in September, 2026.

About the Report

This report is part of the CAS's monthly series, which delves into four key areas of the state of Arakan. The first section addresses political concerns, including the armed revolution, junta activities, and issues of political freedom. The second examines the state's economic climate, focusing on rising prices, declining demand, foreign direct investment, and border trade. The third and fourth sections cover social and humanitarian issues, respectively; these include education, health, migration, and the internally displaced persons (IDP) population.

Key data in the report are sourced from local media outlets, such as DMG, Western News, among others. The aim of this report is to shed new light on the situation for observers endeavoring to comprehend the dynamics at play in the region.

Executive Summary

September 2026 saw intensified fighting between the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army across Sittwe, Ponnagyun, Kyaukphyu and other fronts. The junta launched its so-called “Operation 4926,” using airstrikes, artillery, drones, naval forces and ground offensives, while the AA counterattacked and captured several junta outposts. Despite reported junta casualties and retreats, military operations continued, including the Kyindwe offensive launched at the end of the month. Meanwhile, the ULA continued strengthening its political and administrative institutions through a party periodical, code of conduct, public-media council and judicial and administrative activities.

Arakan faced growing economic pressure from border restrictions, trade disruptions, agricultural difficulties and rising prices. Mizoram introduced restrictions affecting Arakanese traders, while the India–Arakan trade route was temporarily closed before reopening on September 25. Paddy cultivation declined, fertilizer prices increased, and fertilizer shipments destined for Arakan were seized by Bangladeshi authorities. In junta-controlled Sittwe, dried chili prices reportedly reached 100,000 kyats per viss, highlighting worsening market conditions and livelihood pressures.

Healthcare, transportation, education and religious life faced growing disruption during September. Remote communities experienced shortages of medicines and healthcare workers, while malaria and other health problems affected vulnerable populations. Monsoon boat accidents caused significant deaths, and conflict and deteriorating infrastructure restricted civilian movement. Education was affected by conflict and shortages, while religious sites were also damaged, although ULA health and education authorities continued providing essential services and community support.

The humanitarian situation worsened as junta attacks caused civilian deaths, injuries, displacement and shortages of essential supplies across Arakan. Thousands fled fighting around Sittwe, Ponnagyun and Rathedaung, while airstrikes, artillery and naval attacks affected communities across multiple townships. Food shortages and rising prices left IDPs and residents in several areas facing severe hardship and starvation. The September 28 Kyauktaw Indian Market airstrike killed at least 50 civilians and injured dozens, drawing international condemnation and increasing calls for accountability.

Key Developments

A - Politics: Three Key Highlights

B - Economic Challenges: Three Key Highlights

C - Social Issues: Three Key Highlights

D - Humanitarian Challenges: Three Key Highlights

A - Politics: Three Key Highlights

1. September 8–18, 2026 — Operation 4926 intensifies but faces setbacks

The Myanmar military launched its so-called “Operation 4926” across several fronts in Arakan, particularly along the Sittwe–Ponnagyun border. Fighting intensified through September, with the military using artillery, drones, fighter jets and airstrikes while the Arakan Army launched counteroffensives and captured several military outposts. By September 18, reports said the Arakan Army had captured four junta outposts along the Sittwe–Ponnagyun front, while the junta intensified airstrikes after losing positions.

2. September 20–26, 2026 — Fighting expands as the Arakan Army maintains pressure

Between September 20 and 26, fighting continued across multiple fronts, including Sittwe–Ponnagyun, Kyaukphyu, the Rakhine–Magway border and the Rakhine–Bago border. Reports indicated that junta troops suffered casualties and retreats, while the Arakan Army captured additional positions and blocked junta advances toward Arakan. By September 26, a report identified Arakan as having the highest number of armed incidents and civilian-targeted airstrikes in Myanmar during the period.

3. September 27–30, 2026 — Military pressure continues alongside political and administrative developments

At the end of September, the ULA published its first party periodical and established a code of conduct for party members, while the AA leadership continued issuing statements on the political and military situation. At the same time, junta airstrikes continued in places including Ngapali, Ponnagyun and other areas, while fighting remained active ...Read More

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