by Hafizur Rahman
Northern Maungdaw Township, Arakan State | May 30, 2026
Tensions have reportedly increased between members of the Daingnet community and the Arakan Army following a confrontation in Thinbaw Hla Village in Taung Pyo Letwe Sub-township, according to local sources.
Residents said the incident began on May 23 when Arakan Army members were conducting recruitment activities in the village.
According to witnesses, a dispute broke out between local Daingnet residents and Arakan Army personnel during the recruitment process. The confrontation reportedly escalated into violence involving gunfire and physical assaults.
Local sources said several villagers were injured during the incident, including pregnant women.
Residents described the clash as one of the most serious confrontations reported in the area in recent months.
According to community members, more than 100 Daingnet residents were detained the following day.
Those reportedly taken into custody included elderly people, household heads, and men and women who were the primary providers for their families.
Residents also reported growing concerns about tensions involving Daingnet members serving within the Arakan Army.
According to local sources, Daingnet members inside the group have recently faced new restrictions. Residents alleged that they are permitted to carry weapons during the day but are required to surrender them each evening before receiving them back the following morning.
Similar concerns have reportedly been raised by members of the Mro community.
According to local sources, trust toward some Mro members within the Arakan Army has declined, and some individuals have reportedly been disarmed.
Residents said the developments have created fear and uncertainty among both Daingnet and Mro communities, while concerns continue to grow over rising tensions in northern Maungdaw.
