Arakan Army Tells Rohingya in Maungdaw Township to Join Them

Arakan Now, 25 April 2025

On 24 April, Arakan Army (AA) officials held meetings in different parts of Maungdaw Township. During the meetings, they instructed Rohingya village administrators to mobilize 30 to 50 youths from each village to join the AA.

An AA commander based in Buthidaung held a meeting with all village administrators from northern Maungdaw. Another meeting took place at the Myaw Taung AA camp, also known as Sali Parang, with administrators from nearby villages. Similar meetings were held at Camp 6 in Pyin Phyu village and at the Alaythan Kyaw AA camp. Village administrators from surrounding areas were called to attend.

During these meetings, the AA commander said, “Everyone has a duty to take part for the liberation of Rakhine.”

The AA set age limits for recruitment. Males must be between 18 and 45 years old. Females must be between 18 and 35 years old. Recruits are required to undergo at least 45 days of military training before being deployed for defense and security operations.

Reports say more than 200 Rohingya youths were forcibly conscripted from several villages in Maungdaw Township. These include Ngan Chaung (also known as Narng Kyawm), Kyee Kan Pyin, Kyet Yoe Pyin, Ngakura, U Shey Kya (Burai Sheeda Para), Latha Quarter, Myo Oo Quarter, Maungni, Kayin Dan, Ywa Thitkay Quarter, and Shwezah. Their current whereabouts remain unknown.

At least 150 more Rohingya youths were conscripted from Buthidaung Township. Affected villages include Hpon Nyo Leik, Sayoh Gya, Thin Daung, Kin Daung, and Kyee Nouk Thee near Taung Baazar. While the identities of some are known, most remain missing.