by Hafizur Rahman
November 16, 2025. Buthidaung, Rakhine State
Three Rohingya families were arrested earlier this week after attempting to escape from Than Shauk Khan New Village in Buthidaung, where movement remains tightly controlled under the authority of the Arakan Army. The families had travelled from Buthidaung to Maungdaw in hopes of reaching Bangladesh, but were detained in Maungdaw town and taken back to Buthidaung.
According to residents, the arrests have deepened the fear inside the newly constructed settlement, which stands on the site of a village destroyed last year. Many say leaving the area without approval is treated as a serious offence, adding to the sense of confinement.
Village Destroyed in 2024
Than Shauk Khan Village was once home to hundreds of Rohingya families. On two May 2024, Arakan Army forces burned down the entire village. More than six hundred residents, including children, mothers and elderly people, were killed in a single day. Only a small number survived, and they later took shelter in nearby Sein Taung village.
Months later, the Arakan Army built more than eighty five houses for selected survivors and renamed the settlement Than Shauk Khan New Village. While the reconstruction created the appearance of recovery, residents said the new arrangements placed them under severe restrictions. A checkpoint was established at the entrance, and permission is required for even basic movement.
One resident said they feel trapped inside the area. He explained that anyone who wishes to leave must first request approval and that very few permissions are granted.
Attempted Escape and Arrest
The three families left the new village quietly and travelled across Buthidaung toward Maungdaw. Community members said the families believed they were close to escaping the conditions of the village and hoped to reach Bangladesh for safety.
Arakan Army personnel became aware of the movement and began searching. The families were located in Maungdaw town and arrested shortly afterward. They were taken back to Buthidaung Township under guard, according to residents who followed the incident.
Growing Fear Among Villagers
People in and around the settlement said the arrests have created a climate of fear. Some worry the area is becoming a locked compound where leaving without permission is impossible. Others said the attempted escape reflects the desperation of those who remain inside the village and live under constant restrictions.
Residents said the situation has become more tense in recent months, with movement controls tightening and the risks of travelling outside increasing. For many survivors of the 2024 attack, the hope of finding safety has become more distant.
