by Hafizur Rahman
Paletwa, Chin State, April 25, 2026 — Around 20 Rohingya youths, including children, were reportedly taken by the Arakan Army on April 24 near the jetty of Mee Zar village in Paletwa Township, according to local sources.
The incident occurred when a cargo boat traveling from Shin Let Wa village arrived at the port. Witnesses said Arakan Army members stopped the boats and took away boys and girls aged between 14 and 15 from different vessels.
Among those taken is a 14 year old student, Maung Chit Su Aung, also known as Maung Chan Saw Aung, a resident of Shin Let Wa village. He was traveling by boat when he was taken.
“They stopped the boats at the jetty and took the young people by force. Some of them were crying, but they could not escape,” a Rohingya resident said.
According to his family, the boy’s two older brothers had previously joined the Arakan Army. One died during fighting, while the other remains missing with no contact.
Maung Chit Su Aung is a Grade 6 student and the main caregiver for his mother, who is over 60 and suffering from serious health problems. His mother requested his release, but her appeal was rejected.
“The mother begged them to release her son because he is underage and the only one taking care of her, but they said every family must give one person,” a relative said.
Residents said such incidents have happened before in the area, raising concerns about the safety of children.
“We are living in fear. Our children are not safe anymore. Even if they travel for small work, they can be taken at any time,” another villager said.
Families of those taken have called for urgent attention from authorities and international organizations, seeking intervention to secure the release of the children and prevent further forced recruitment.
