by Hafizur Rahman
Buthidaung, September 14, 2025 – Four Rohingya men from Sein Nying Pyin village in Buthidaung Township have gone missing after entering a nearby forest to collect bamboo on Saturday morning.
Villagers Vanish After Entering Forest
According to local residents, the men had secured permission from the Arakan Army (AA) to enter the eastern forest to cut bamboo, which they routinely sell to support their families. However, they never returned home. By evening, worried families and neighbors began searching for them, but no trace was found.
Families Seek Answers
On Sunday morning, relatives approached the same AA camp that had given the permission. To their shock, AA troops claimed they had no knowledge of the men’s whereabouts. Villagers attempting to continue search operations in the forest were blocked by the militia.
“They left in the morning and never came back. We went to the AA camp but got no answers. We are living in fear, not knowing what happened to them,” said a family member of one of the missing men.
Heightened Fears in Rohingya Communities
Community members say the disappearance underscores the vulnerability of Rohingya civilians living under Arakan Army control. With armed groups dominating the area, even routine livelihood activities such as collecting bamboo, fishing, or farming are becoming increasingly dangerous.
Humanitarian observers warn that the case reflects a broader pattern of intimidation, arbitrary restrictions, and enforced disappearances targeting Rohingya in northern Rakhine.
Crisis Without Relief
The incident comes as Rohingya families continue to face land seizures, forced displacement, and declining humanitarian assistance across Rakhine State. For many, the disappearance of these four men is a grim reminder of the risks Rohingya face simply while trying to survive.
