by Hafizur Rahman
Rohingya residents in northern Maungdaw Township say the Arakan Army is forcibly recruiting Rohingya men and women, including children under the age of 18, as part of its expanding military mobilization in Arakan State.
According to local residents, leaders of the Arakan Army visited Mingalar Gyi village last week and ordered families to provide members for military service. Residents said the instructions were delivered during a meeting aimed at compiling household based recruitment lists.
Residents describe forced recruitment
“One person from each household was called to the school on the morning of 14 January,” said a Rohingya man from the area. “They said if there is no man in the family, a woman must go. Everyone must join, whether they want to or not.”
Residents said the meeting was held in Thar Si village and involved representatives from surrounding Rohingya communities. According to those present, AA officials told villagers that educated individuals would be assigned to administrative or education related tasks, while those without formal education would be sent for military training.
Locals were reportedly told that recruits would undergo 45 days of training before being allowed to return home. However, many fear that once recruited, individuals could be deployed elsewhere against their will.
“They said this is only a warning now,” said a Rohingya woman. “Later they will come to our homes and take people by force. We are scared for our children.”
Movement restrictions increase fear
Since the reported recruitment drive began, residents say restrictions on movement in northern Maungdaw have tightened significantly. Travel between northern and southern parts of the township is now heavily controlled.
People seeking to travel for medical emergencies, funerals, or other urgent reasons are required to obtain permission letters from local authorities. Residents said these letters cost between 10,000 and 20,000 kyats, making movement difficult for many families.
Another resident described the growing sense of fear in the community. “Only a few of us are left here. Every day it feels more dangerous. Some families are already preparing to cross into Bangladesh to stay safe,” he said.
Humanitarian concerns grow
Humanitarian observers say the reported forced recruitment reflects a hardening approach by the Arakan Army toward the Rohingya population in areas under its control. They warn that such practices are further worsening already severe living conditions and may push more families toward displacement.
As of now, the Arakan Army has not publicly responded to the allegations. Rohingya residents say they continue to live in fear, uncertain about their safety and future as the situation in northern Maungdaw deteriorates.
