November 21, 2016
As the terror operations against Rohingyas are underway in Northern Maungdaw, there is increased panic among Rohingyas in the southern townships of Mrauk U and Kyauktaw.
In Mrauk U, also known as Pathor Keela, the pagodas have always remained a major attraction for people interested in fabulous architecture and spirituality. However, there are now allegations the pagodas are being used to store weapons that will be used to attack the Rohingya Muslims at any time. In the Bolti Para neighbourhood of Pathor Keela, Rohingyas say they are not able to approach the area near the pagodas, fuelling suspicions that the Buddhist nationalists are mobilising for the inevitable attack against Muslims.
Meanwhile in Kyauktaw town, there are allegations the Rakhine nationalists in association with local administration had organised a meeting in a high school playground on November 14. While there were no military officers were present, some soldiers were guarding the entrance. In the meeting, the Rakhine nationalists pledged support to the ongoing Tatmadaw operations that have killed hundreds of Rohingya Muslims. It is alleged the nationalists also excused the deaths of children and women as it was important the Muslims should not be allowed to increase in number. The nationalists also said if necessary they will go to Maungdaw to fight against Rohingyas.
In the meeting, some of the administrative officials said if the nationalists were to engage in violence against Muslims in Kyauktaw, they will not be stopped by the government.
They also pledged total boycott against Rohingyas and other Muslims.
The meeting lasted from 8 to 10pm.
As a result of the alleged Rakhine mobilisations, Rohingyas in both Mrauk U and Kyauktaw are passing their days in panic. Many have said they will escape the country the first chance they get as another bout of ethnic cleansing is now only a matter of time.
