By: Camp Correspondent
May 8, 2025 | Maungdaw, Rakhine State
The Arakan Army (AA) has reportedly confiscated the residence and business premises of a respected Rohingya physician, Dr. Hla Myint, also known as Dr. Kamal, in eastern Maungdaw town, near the central clock tower. According to multiple local sources, AA forces intend to convert the seized property into a jury office under the control of its administrative wing.
The property—a three-story building with a clinic and commercial space underneath—was first cordoned off on April 12, with access barred to the family. On April 25, armed personnel accompanied by the Deputy Political Officer of the AA/ULA entered the premises and removed nearly all belongings, including medical equipment, household furniture, and personal assets. Even structural components like doors and windows were stripped from the building.
Son’s Business Also Looted, Materials Transported to Buthidaung
The lower floor of the building, where Dr. Kamal’s son ran a warehouse and retail shop, was also targeted. Witnesses confirmed that construction materials—including cement, iron rods, and hardware items—were loaded onto four trucks and reportedly sent to Buthidaung Township, another stronghold under AA control.
The takeover appears to be not only a form of asset seizure but part of a broader campaign of property appropriation in northern Maungdaw. Victims allege that AA members have repeatedly raided Rohingya-owned shops and homes, looted goods, and then changed the locks to avoid detection.
AA’s Jury Office Reportedly Includes Rohingya Representatives
Sources inside Maungdaw say the AA is now preparing to open a jury office inside Dr. Kamal’s seized property, which will be run by a group of Rohingya affiliates under AA administration. The jury group reportedly includes:
- U Basar – AA Officer and Organizer from Buthidaung
- U Mahmat Nur – Legal Officer
- U Swayotdul Amin – AA-affiliated representative from Rathedaung Township
While some AA supporters claim this reflects “inclusive governance,” many Rohingya community members say these positions lack legitimacy, as they do not represent the will or safety of the larger population and were selected without community consultation.
Systematic Looting and Economic Destruction of Rohingya Communities
The seizure of Dr. Kamal’s property is not an isolated case. In recent weeks, multiple reports have surfaced of homes, clinics, solar panels, wires, kitchenware, and even rooftops being stolen or dismantled under AA control.
“They came during the night, opened our shop, took everything—even the fan, even the generator. Then they changed the locks and told us it was empty when they arrived,” said one displaced Rohingya shopkeeper from Maungdaw.
These actions have left dozens of Rohingya families facing serious economic ruin. With their assets gone and no compensation or protection in sight, many now face starting their lives from scratch, once again.
Targeting of Professionals Raises New Alarms
Dr. Kamal was known locally as a humanitarian figure, treating both Rohingya and Rakhine patients for years—even during the height of conflict. His clinic had been a symbol of trust and service in a region where healthcare access is severely limited.
“Confiscating the home of someone who helped everyone—Rohingya and Rakhine alike—sends a terrifying message,” said one elder in the community. “If even our doctors are not safe, who is?”
The incident has deepened fears that the AA’s territorial expansion is being accompanied by an informal policy of economic erasure and social control over Rohingya populations. Locals are now calling for urgent international attention to prevent further targeted attacks on civilian infrastructure and minority livelihoods.
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