by Hafizur Rahman
Yangon, Myanmar | May 5, 2026
Around 50 Rohingya individuals, including 10 teachers and 40 students, were arrested on May 2 in Nwe Aye Ward of Dagon Myothit East Township in Yangon while operating an informal learning center, according to local sources.
The arrests took place at approximately 5:00 PM, when ward authorities, reportedly following complaints from local residents including monks, called police to the location. Officers then took the group into custody.
Sources said the group had been running a small school to provide basic education for Rohingya children displaced from Rakhine State. The classes included subjects such as the Myanmar language and English.
Local sources further stated that those detained held official identity documents issued under state systems in Myanmar, which allowed them to travel between townships. Despite this, they were accused of being “illegal Bengalis” at the time of arrest.
The use of the term reflects ongoing patterns of denying Rohingya identity, even in cases where individuals possess state-issued documentation.
Family members and community residents said the arrests have created fear among Rohingya families in the area, particularly regarding access to education for children.
The current condition and location of those detained remain unclear.
The incident raises concerns over restrictions on education and highlights the continued vulnerability of Rohingya communities outside Rakhine State, where access to basic services and protection remains limited despite formal documentation.
