by Hafizur Rahman
Maungdaw, Rakhine State | July 25, 2026
The Arakan Army (AA) has arrested a Rohingya civilian in Maungdaw Township over allegations that he helped three captured Myanmar military soldiers escape towards Bangladesh, according to local residents.
The arrested man was identified as Mohammedura Rahman, 33, a resident of the Paungzar–Pyinphyu village tract. Residents said that around 10 AA members arrived at his home and detained him at approximately 3:40 p.m. on July 22. His current whereabouts and condition remain unknown.
Local sources said the arrest was connected to the reported escape of three Myanmar military soldiers on July 21. The soldiers allegedly attempted to cross the Naf River into Bangladesh using yellow oil containers as flotation devices. They were subsequently detained by Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB).
Residents, however, strongly rejected the allegation against Mohammedura Rahman. They described him as an ordinary villager with no involvement in human trafficking or assisting people in crossing the border.
Following the incident, movement near the Bangladesh–Myanmar border has reportedly been tightened since July 22. The transportation of goods has been restricted, while local fishermen have been prohibited from going to sea.
Residents said the restrictions have caused the prices of food and other essential commodities to rise sharply. One viss of chilli is now reportedly selling for approximately 42,000 kyats, while a bundle of betel leaves costs around 15,000 kyats and a basket of fish approximately 30,000 kyats.
Local families fear that continued restrictions will further disrupt livelihoods and make basic food items increasingly unaffordable.
