The Arakan Army (AA) has been accused of forcing Rohingya civilians in Maungdaw town, northern Rakhine State, to take turns performing night guard duties — a move that residents say amounts to coercion and abuse amid growing tensions in the region.
According to Rohingya Khobor that the AA issued strict orders after recent clashes with Rohingya armed groups near the Shoung Taung area. Under the new directive, each Rohingya family must perform night duty three times a month or pay 20,000 kyats per shift — roughly 60,000 kyats in total. Those unable to serve or pay face threats of arrest and intimidation.
“The Arakan Army is making our lives miserable,” said a resident from Ward-5. “We are already poor and jobless, yet they are forcing us to guard the streets and demanding money. It feels like punishment for being Rohingya.”
Others said that even the elderly and sick are not exempt. “AA doesn’t care if people are old or unwell,” said a man from Maung Ni Para. “If anyone refuses, they threaten to take them away.”
Residents reported that guards are only allowed to carry sticks and flashlights, and anyone caught without an official AA-issued guard card risks immediate detention.
A young woman from Latha Ward said her family lives in constant fear. “Our fathers and brothers are forced out every few nights. We can’t sleep, and we’re scared something might happen to them.”
The order, which took effect on October 24, has been enforced across multiple neighborhoods including Ward-2, Ward-5, Latha, Kanyintan, Myo Oo, and Maung Ni. A strict curfew from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. remains in place, further restricting movement.
Locals say both Rohingya and Hindu residents are being subjected to the same forced patrols, deepening fear and resentment. Rights observers have condemned the AA’s actions, saying such coercion violates basic human rights and adds to the long history of oppression against Rohingya civilians in Rakhine State.
“The Arakan Army claims to fight for justice, but by oppressing the Rohingya, they are repeating the same injustices we suffered before,” said one resident.
BOB Post
