by Hafizur Rahman
Maungdaw, Arakan State — September 26, 2026
Local sources in northern Maungdaw say Mohammad Araf, 30, has been released after he and two family members were reportedly detained by Arakan Army personnel earlier this month.
The sources said AA personnel took Araf, his father U Abu, also known as Abdul Kalam, and his brother Mohammad Ayas, 25, from their home in U Shwe Kya village on the night of September 4. They said U Abu and Ayas remain in custody. Rohingya Khobor has not independently confirmed their whereabouts or obtained a response from the ULA/AA.
Local sources also alleged that money was demanded in connection with Araf’s release. They gave conflicting accounts of when he was released and when the alleged payment took place. Rohingya Khobor has not verified that any money changed hands.
