By Hafizur Rahman
June 11, 2026
Local reports say that some young people living in villages near the Bangladesh–Myanmar border in Bandarban are facing pressure to join the Arakan Army, an armed group active in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. The situation has led many youths to leave their homes out of fear.
Sources from the area say that teenagers and young men, especially between 16 and 20 years old, are being targeted. Some are reportedly offered money and promises of better living conditions in Rakhine. Others are said to be forced or pressured if they refuse to join.
According to local information, some people from Bangladesh who previously joined the group are now involved in recruiting others from border villages. With the Arakan Army controlling much of Rakhine State, the group is believed to need more fighters to maintain its control and continue its activities.
Recently, a rumor spread in Naikhongchhari about the death of a young man from Baishari area who had joined the Arakan Army. The news created confusion in the community and spread widely on social media. Some people said he was killed in fighting, while others said he is still alive but sick.
His younger sister later said online that the reports of his death were not true. She said he is alive and currently unwell, and she asked people to pray for his recovery.
Local residents also say that similar cases exist in several border areas like Naikhongchhari, Alikadam, Thanchi, and Lama, where some youths have allegedly joined the armed group after training. Many families are worried and say their children have left home due to fear of pressure.
Some community members are now calling for attention from authorities, saying the situation could create safety and security concerns in the border region if it continues.
Source: parbattanews
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