by Hafizur Rahman
Rohingya residents of Maungdaw Town in Arakan State say the Arakan Army forcibly summoned Rohingya men and women to attend military related meetings twice in a single day, threatening violence against families who refused to comply.
According to residents, members of the Arakan Army demanded that each household sign a written pledge agreeing to serve in the group’s military structure. Witnesses said AA members used guns and intimidation, warning that refusal would result in punishment.
Threats and forced pledges
One resident, who requested anonymity for safety reasons, said AA members arrived at his home early in the morning. “They pointed guns at us and shouted that we must sign their papers or face punishment. I was scared for my family,” he said.
Residents said Rohingya from Ward 1 and Ward 2 were summoned to the AA headquarters on 12 January between 9:00 am and 1:00 pm. Witnesses said AA members blocked doors, shouted at people, and pressured them to sign pledges to serve. Those who hesitated were reportedly threatened with firearms.
Families said they quietly discussed among themselves before attending, fearing that refusal could put their entire household at risk.
Second summons and detention
Residents said the Arakan Army later sent letters ordering Rohingya to attend another meeting at around 4:00 pm on 14 January.
“We had no weapons and no power,” said another resident. “If we did not go, they said they would punish our whole family.”
In one reported case, witnesses said AA members detained 44 Rohingya from Shwezaye village and transported them by truck to a military training school in Buthidaung Township. According to residents, the detainees were forced to wear uniforms and carry weapons and were paraded through parts of Maungdaw Town.
Fear and intimidation
A third resident described the warning given by AA members. “They told us that if we refused, they could do anything with their guns. They said even the United Nations or the courts cannot stop them. We had no choice but to go,” he said.
Residents said fear has spread rapidly through Rohingya neighborhoods, with families concerned that further forced recruitment and detentions could follow.
International concern
Observers note that the reported actions are taking place while the International Court of Justice is hearing the genocide case against Myanmar. Forced recruitment of Rohingya civilians by armed groups inside Arakan State is seen as further deepening the vulnerability of an already persecuted population.
As of now, the Arakan Army has not publicly responded to the allegations. Rohingya residents say they remain trapped between fear, coercion, and uncertainty about their future as the situation in Maungdaw continues to deteriorate.
