by Hafizur Rahman
Maungdaw, October 16, 2025:
Six Rohingya fishermen from Kyauk Hla Kar village in northern Maungdaw Township were arrested by the Arakan Army (AA) while fishing near Pya Thar Khaing village, according to local residents.
Fishermen Taken While Fishing
Residents said the men had gone out early in the morning to catch fish and prawns as part of their daily livelihood. “They are poor fishermen who depend on the sea to feed their families. They have nothing to do with any armed group,” one local man from Kyauk Hla Kar village told Rohingya Khobor.
Witnesses reported that AA members appeared suddenly and arrested the six men without providing any explanation. The detainees were later taken to Maungdaw Police Station.
“We don’t know why they were arrested. No one explained anything to us. Their families are crying and worried,” said a relative of one of the arrested fishermen.
Fear Growing Among Residents
Community elders in Maungdaw expressed concern that such incidents could deepen fear and tension among Rohingya civilians already living under insecurity. “If innocent people are taken like this, peace in our area will be broken,” another villager said.
Calls for Fair Treatment and Release
Local human rights groups have urged the Arakan Army to release the six fishermen if they are not guilty of any wrongdoing and to ensure that civilians are not targeted or harassed. They emphasized that fair treatment and accountability are essential to maintaining trust and stability in the region.
