by Hafizur Rahman
Maungdaw, November 11, 2025 —
Three Rohingya workers from Tharay Auk village in Maungdaw Township were reportedly arrested and tortured by members of the Arakan Army (AA), leaving one of them in critical condition.
According to local sources, the incident occurred after a man identified as Mohibullah, son of Nir Ahmed, from Tharay Auk village, arranged for the three workers to travel to Laldia Island on November 7 to move goods brought from Bangladesh. The trip reportedly took place with approval from local AA authorities.
On their return, the three workers were stopped at the Nga Khura checkpoint and taken into custody by AA personnel. Residents said the men were later beaten severely, and one is now in critical condition.
Family members said they approached Mohibullah for assistance after the arrests, but he denied involvement. Locals also alleged that he has previously coordinated similar trips for Rohingya laborers, some of whom were later detained and abused.
To secure the release of the three men, families were reportedly forced to pay one million kyats each. Community members said such incidents have created widespread fear among Rohingya villagers, who face increasing risks while working under informal arrangements with local groups.
The AA has not commented publicly on the allegations. Rohingya residents in northern Maungdaw continue to report cases of detention, forced labor, and extortion, highlighting the community’s ongoing vulnerability under shifting local control.
