by Hafizur Rahman
Buthidaung, Arakan, September 5, 2025, Rohingya families in Buthidaung Township are facing worsening hardship as Arakan Army militias impose strict controls on farming and fishing, depriving communities of their basic means of survival.
Heavy Taxes on Farming
Villagers in Hpon Nyo Leik, Kin Taung, and nearby areas said they are allowed to plant crops only under harsh conditions, such as paying heavy taxes or surrendering a large portion of their harvest to militias.
“Even when it is my own land, I cannot plant freely,” one resident said. “If I don’t pay or give crops, the militias will punish me. It is impossible to survive this way.”
Fishing Banned in Local Waters
Fishing, once a lifeline for many Rohingya families, has also come under severe restriction as rivers and lakes are placed under militia control. In many areas, Rohingya are barred from fishing altogether.
“Before, we could fish freely to feed our children,” another villager said. “Now the Arakan militias don’t allow it. We have no way to get food, and no one cares if we starve.”
Hunger and Rising Prices
Local sources reported that these restrictions have pushed up the prices of rice, vegetables, and fish in Buthidaung markets, worsening hunger and malnutrition. Families are increasingly forced to borrow food or survive on just one meal a day.
Control and Persecution
The Arakan Army seized much of northern Arakan after launching a campaign against Myanmar forces in late 2023, capturing 14 out of 17 towns. While the conflict has weakened the Myanmar military’s presence, Rohingya communities remain trapped under violence, forced displacement, and economic persecution.
