by Hafizur Rahman
At least 20 Rohingya residents were reportedly arrested following a village level meeting in Buthidaung Township on February 15, 2026, raising concerns about forced recruitment, according to local sources.
Residents said the meeting was organized village by village and concluded earlier in the day. According to people present, discussions focused on recruiting Rohingya individuals for military training. Participants were reportedly told they must “protect the country” and take part in the activities of the Arakan Army.
Community members said that shortly after the meeting ended, at least 20 Rohingya individuals were taken by force. Family members reported that those detained were not provided with any legal explanation, and their current whereabouts remain unclear.
The reported arrests have intensified fear among Rohingya families in Buthidaung. Residents said the incident follows earlier meetings and announcements related to recruitment of Rohingya youths and young women.
“There is constant anxiety,” one resident said. “We do not know who will be taken next.”
No official statement had been issued regarding the reported arrests or the recruitment claims at the time of reporting.
Local community members are calling for the immediate release of those detained and for protection of civilians from forced involvement in armed activities. Residents said the situation in Buthidaung remains tense as families continue seeking information about their relatives.
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