By Camp Correspondent
A devastating act of violence has left hundreds of Rohingya families homeless as their homes were set ablaze in Ward 4 of Buthidaung Township earlier today. The attack, reportedly carried out by the Arakan Army (AA), began around 2 PM and resulted in widespread destruction.
Eyewitnesses described flames rapidly consuming homes while residents desperately tried to save their belongings. Thick black smoke filled the skies as families fled in fear. Initial reports estimate that hundreds of houses were completely destroyed, leaving countless individuals without shelter.
The Arakan Army, which has maintained control over Maungdaw Township since May 2024, is accused of escalating violence against the Rohingya community. This incident further intensifies the plight of the already vulnerable population in the region.
“We lost everything,” said one Rohingya resident, speaking anonymously for fear of reprisal. “There’s no safe place for us anymore.”
Human rights organizations and local activists have strongly condemned the attack, labeling it a grave violation of human rights. They are urging the international community to intervene and provide immediate humanitarian assistance to the affected families.
This attack comes amid ongoing reports of violence and instability in Rakhine State. Between July and August 2024, over 2,500 Rohingya fled to Bangladesh due to escalating persecution by the Arakan Army. Additionally, more than 500 people were killed in drone attacks and airstrikes along Myanmar’s seashores and the Naf River.
Neither the Arakan Army nor the Myanmar military junta has issued a statement regarding the incident. Humanitarian aid groups have called for urgent support, emphasizing the critical need for food, shelter, and medical assistance for the displaced families.
This tragic event highlights the ongoing crisis faced by the Rohingya community and underscores the urgent need for international intervention to ensure their safety and dignity.
