Thousands of Rohingya Still Barred from Returning Home in Maungdaw and Buthidaung

by Hafizur Rahman

Maungdaw and Buthidaung Townships, Arakan State | December 30, 2025

Thousands of Rohingya families from dozens of villages in Maungdaw and Buthidaung townships remain barred from returning to their homes months after being forcibly displaced, according to local residents. Those affected are now living in nearby villages and makeshift shelters, facing worsening hardship and uncertainty.

Residents said the displacement was carried out by the Arakan Army, which forced Rohingya families out of their villages, seized their land, and used wood taken from Rohingya houses to construct new military posts.

A Rohingya man from Myo Taung Village said families were pushed out without warning and stripped of everything they owned. He said their homes, land, and building materials were taken, leaving them with nothing but the hope of returning home, even if their houses no longer exist.

Villages Still Denied Return

In Maungdaw Township, Rohingya families from at least 10 villages remain blocked from returning. These villages include Ngan Chaung Gon Nar, Kyee Kan Pyin, Myo Taung, Leip Yar, Kyauk Chaung, Kyun Pauk Pyu Su, Aleh Thankyaw, Thi Hote Kone Kyun, Khway Lar Banga, and Bek Kar Gon Nar Taung.

In Buthidaung Township, displaced families from at least 42 villages are still not permitted to go back. Villages affected include Min Ngar, Pa Gon Nar, Taung Village, Htan Shauk Pyin, Da Pyu Chaung, Nan Yar Kone, Kyet Mauk Taung North and South, Pazon Chaung, Kumi Kali, Don Pyat, and Pho Gyi Chaung, among others.

A Rohingya woman from Khway Lar Banga Village said families feel like strangers on their own land. She said they are unable to return, rebuild, or send their children to school, and instead spend their days waiting for answers that never come.

Land Seizure and Destruction

Displaced residents said their farmland has been divided and handed over to others. Some Rakhine residents, with the backing of armed groups, are reportedly removing materials from abandoned Rohingya homes and cutting down fruit trees and timber.

A Rohingya youth from Kyauk Phyu Taung Village said when families were forced out, their farmland was taken and redistributed. He said people fled with nothing but fear, leaving behind generations of work and livelihood.

Many displaced families are now sheltering near the Mayu Mountain range in temporary huts. Residents said they lack stable work, adequate food, and security. Children have dropped out of education, and families fear the coming months will bring even greater hardship.

Rohingya families say they are not asking for special treatment or favors. They are calling only for the right to return to the villages where they lived for generations and to rebuild their lives in peace.