Over 70 Rohingya Households in Northern Maungdaw Struggle After Forced Evictions by Arakan Army

By: Camp Correspondent

March 10, 2025

More than 70 Rohingya households from Myaw Taung Village Tract in northern Maungdaw Township are facing severe hardships after being forcibly evicted by the Arakan Army (AA) in July 2024.

Since their displacement, these families have sought refuge in nearby villages but remain without basic support or a safe place to return to.

Denied Return and Stripped of Rights

Initially, the residents of Myaw Taung believed they were being displaced temporarily due to the ongoing conflict. They fled to Dar Gyi Zar Village Tract, hoping to find safety. However, the AA not only barred them from returning to their homes but also denied them access to their remaining supplies and farmlands.

A source close to the AA’s Kyee Kan Pyin headquarters in northern Maungdaw confirmed that the armed group has seized all surrounding farmlands, including Myaw Taung village.

The displaced Rohingya families, now living in neighboring areas, have been refused household registration documents (AaTaSa), a basic requirement for legal recognition under the AA administration.

“The AA is not allowing them to return to their homes, and they are not even issuing household registration documents like they are for others,” the source said.

Tragedy Strikes as Displaced Families Face Extreme Hardship

On March 16, 2025, a displaced Rohingya woman, Rashida Begum (46), lost her life in a tragic incident. Rashida attempted to visit her former home in Myaw Taung village but was attacked by a wild elephant while making her way back to Dar Gyi Zar.

With no healthcare facilities available for displaced Rohingya in Maungdaw Township, she was unable to receive medical treatment and succumbed to her injuries.

Meanwhile, the evicted families are struggling for survival.

“We are barely making it through each day. There is a severe shortage of food, and we have no means to earn a living,” said a displaced resident.

Currently residing in Dar Gyi Zar Village Tract, the 70 displaced households continue to suffer extreme hardship with little to no support from local authorities or humanitarian organizations.

Rising Concerns Over Rohingya Displacement

The situation for these Rohingya families highlights the worsening humanitarian crisis in northern Maungdaw under AA control. With no access to their homes, land, or legal status, these families are left in limbo—struggling to survive under harsh conditions while their future remains uncertain.