Date: 13th February 2024
The Arakan Rohingya Society for Peace and Human Rights (ARSPH) strongly condemns the recent attacks on Rohingya civilians in the Buthidaung Township of Rakhine state, Myanmar. Since January 25th, 2024, more than 80 innocent Rohingya civilians have been killed, and more than 100 others have sustained severe injuries in the indiscriminate bombardment carried out during an armed conflict between the Myanmar military and the militant group known as Arkan Army (AA). Moreover, nine Islamic Scholars and Teachers were arbitrary disappeared by the AA since January 28,2024. Regrettably, the attacks continue to persist as we issue this urgent statement.
The attack has resulted in the destruction of Rohingya houses in Hpon Nyo Lake, Sain Ying Wai, Atthouing Ngathay, Kin Taung Ywa, Tharakin Manu and Washilla Ywa villages and nearby Rohingya villages, with an additional hundred houses partially damaged and displaced the populations to other villages. These incidents have exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation in the region. The shutdown of mobile networks, communication disruptions, and transportation challenges due to the ongoing fighting have led to a surge in the prices of basic necessities and goods, including food and medicines. This has further endangered the lives of civilians.
The situation in Kyauktaw is deeply distressing, as the details provided reveal the devastating impact on the Rohingya community. The loss of 11 lives is heart-wrenching, with several individuals, ranging in age, tragically losing their lives in different villages. Additionally, 16 others have been injured and are in urgent need of medical attention. The displacement of villages, including the burning of Khong Doke Plaung, has further exacerbated the crisis. The total number of displaced 1996 households and 19160 population are staggering, with the displaced people seeking refuge in various villages, particularly Yadanapon village. However, the displaced population is facing immense challenges in receiving the necessary support, with multiple families forced to share limited accommodations. Immediate assistance is crucial to alleviate their suffering and provide the help they desperately need.
In 2020, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) mandated provisional measures, requiring the Myanmar government to safeguard and protect the Rohingya population in Rakhine State and preserve all evidence. However, these recent attacks demonstrate a blatant disregard for these measures and the lives of the Rohingya people.
The Arakan Rohingya Society for Peace and Human Rights (ARSPH) urgently calls on the international community, including the United Nations (UN), the United States, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), to put further pressure on the Myanmar government to fully comply with the ICJ provisional measures and ensure the immediate cessation of attacks on Rohingya villages by the Arkan Army (AA) and the Myanmar Military.
The ARSPH believes that it is essential for the international community to take immediate action to protect the lives and rights of the Rohingya people. We urge all relevant parties to work together to bring an end to the violence and ensure the safety and well-being of the Rohingya community.
Arakan Rohingya Society for Peace &n Human Rights
Email: info@arsph.org & arsphofficial@gmailcom
Contact (Whatsapp/Signal) : +15195214539
