AA Accused of Forcibly Seizing Rohingya in Arakan

For generations, the Rohingya families of Pyite (Moo) village have lived peacefully in their homes, building lives on land legally purchased and passed down from their ancestors. Now, they are facing an uncertain future as the Arakan Land Management Committee, formed by the United League of Arakan (ULA) and its armed wing, the Arakan Army (AA), moves to confiscate their properties.

Residents in Kyauktaw Township say the AA Alapa (3) Military Region, led by Commander U Maung Maung Kyaw, has targeted 25 Rohingya homes near Yangon Road for forced seizure. “We have proper ownership documents and have paid taxes to every government. Our homes were legally built, yet they are labeling us as encroachers,” said a resident, his voice filled with frustration.

In recent weeks, Commander U Maung Maung Kyaw has allegedly pressured villagers to give up their land, threatening consequences if they refuse. “He called a meeting and told us these prime lands must be handed over to the AA. If not, there will be trouble,” shared another resident, speaking from a secure location.

The fear among the community is palpable. Pyite (Moo) village, home to over 7,000 Rohingya, is seeing decades of hard work and heritage at risk. “These lands and homes are not just property to us; they are the legacy of our ancestors. Losing them feels like losing a piece of ourselves,” one villager explained.

The 25 homes being targeted were built with the approval of past administrations, and neighbors recall how the Rohingya community contributed to the local economy and supported the AA during times of hardship. “We gave them food during battles, we provided funds for their revolution. Now they are turning on us, taking our homes and businesses,” said an elderly man, his voice trembling with disbelief.

The situation has drawn criticism from those who study Arakan State politics. Experts point out the contradiction between the ULA/AA’s public promises of justice and the reported actions against the Rohingya. “The AA claims to fight for equality, yet here they are targeting a vulnerable community that supported them,” one observer noted.

For the Rohingya, the stakes are much higher than just losing property. “Imagine being surrounded by threats, no military to protect you, and yet being attacked. The AA wants to erase us, and they are doing it piece by piece, village by village,” said one victim.

Despite the mounting challenges, the community holds onto hope for justice. “We will not give up our land without a fight. This is our home, our identity,” said a young resident, determined to protect what little remains of his family’s legacy.

As tensions rise, Rohingya Vision News will continue to stand with the affected families, bringing their voices to the forefront and highlighting the human cost of these actions.

Rohingya Vision News
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