By: Camp Correspondent
April 5, 2025
Tensions have sharply escalated in northern Maungdaw as the Arakan Army (AA), in collaboration with local Rakhine villagers from Ken Pyin, reportedly carried out coordinated assaults on Rohingya residents and set fire to forested areas near Pyin Pyu Chaung village.
According to local sources, the violence began on April 4 when armed groups of Rakhine villagers, supported by AA fighters, entered Pyin Pyu Chaung and assaulted residents using sticks, knives, and firearms.
“They came with weapons—sticks, knives, and guns—and started beating anyone they came across,” said a resident of Pyin Pyu Chaung. “AA soldiers were present and inspecting homes while the attackers roamed freely.”
Eyewitnesses reported that two men—Mohammad Nur and Mohammad Alom—were among those beaten severely with sticks and gun barrels. Witnesses described the attackers shouting anti-Rohingya slurs during the assault.
The same group also set fire to nearby forests, raising fears that homes and villages may be targeted next.
A resident from nearby U Shey Kya village said: “Since April 2, things have only gotten worse. Armed groups have been roaming with full freedom while we are restricted to our homes. We fear that our villages may be next.”
Local Rohingya communities remain deeply concerned, fearing further attacks and possible displacement. Despite the growing threat, there has been no meaningful intervention or protection offered by authorities.
As the situation deteriorates, calls are growing for international monitoring and protection for Rohingya civilians trapped in conflict zones across northern Maungdaw.
