by Hafizur Rahman
Several Rohingya girls have been arrested by the Arakan Army in different villages of Buthidaung Township, according to local residents, deepening fear and grief across the community.
Villagers said that on 26 February 2026, the Arakan Army held a meeting in Alay Chaung village where young Rohingya girls and boys were reportedly called to be involved in fighting against the military and other armed groups.
Earlier, on 14 February 2026, a 15 year old girl named Kusmida, daughter of Hafes Abu Shaw Ma, from Tan Sha Pyin village under La Wai Tha Prin Shay village tract, was arrested by the Arakan Army. Residents said she died on 25 February 2026 while in detention.
On 27 February 2026, three more Rohingya girls were arrested in Kung Daung village, known locally as Haund Daung, according to villagers.
Among those previously arrested are:
• Minara, 16, daughter of Sawyed Nur
• Sawfura, 16, daughter of Yenus Ahmed
• Sabekun Naher, 17, daughter of Sayfayed Ullah
• Naru, 18, daughter of Dil Mohammed
• Moe Moe, 16, daughter of Ali Akber
Local Rohingya residents described a growing sense of fear.
“We are very scared for our children. They should not be forced to fight,” said a villager from Alay Chaung.
“Kusmida was just a child. Her death has made all of us sad,” said another resident from Tan Sha Pyin village.
“We hope the authorities can protect our girls from being taken,” added a villager from Kung Daung.
Community members said they continue to live in fear as more young girls and boys remain at risk of being recruited by armed groups.
