by Hafizur Rahman
September 2, 2025, Maungdaw
Three Rohingya workers from Thayet Oak village in Maungdaw Township were arrested by the Arakan Army (AA) on Laldiyah Island on August 28 while transporting food supplies from Bangladesh, despite holding official permission documents issued by an AA outpost. The men are currently detained at the Ngakhuya camp and have not been released.
Detained Despite Written Permits
The arrested youths are Robi Ullah (24), son of Anowt Ullah; Dolla Ya (17), son of Rahamat Ullah; and Dolla, son of Bosir, all from Alel (Middle) hamlet of Thayet Oak village. According to local sources, the three had obtained written permission stamped and signed by the AA outpost in Shwe Nyo Taung village, which included their names, photos, and addresses.
Despite this, AA troops stationed on Laldiyah Island reportedly refused to recognize the permits and detained the men, transferring them to Ngakhuya camp in northern Maungdaw.
Local Power and Exploitation Allegations
The arrangement was reportedly made by Mohib Ullah, a villager from the same area and known supporter and financier of the AA. Mohib Ullah is said to regularly import goods from Bangladesh for the Arakan Army and allegedly uses Rohingya villagers as laborers under his influence.
Community members accuse him of exploiting vulnerable families, forcing villagers into risky transport work while shielding himself under AA protection. Before the August 28 trip, he is alleged to have assured the families that he would take responsibility for the safety of the workers. However, following their arrest, locals report that he has distanced himself from the matter.
Families Appeal for Release
The families of the three detainees are extremely poor and now face worsening hardship due to the arrests. They are appealing directly to AA leaders to secure the release of their loved ones, stressing that the men were engaged in permitted work and should not be punished for fulfilling duties assigned under AA authorization.
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