Arakan News Agency
Residents of Myoma South Ward in Maungdaw town, Arakan State, have called on relevant authorities to take immediate action against a local official appointed by Arakan militias (separatist Buddhist) (AA), after he was accused of stealing and selling the property of Rohingya families who were internally displaced.
According to local testimonies cited by community sources, the accused, Raufit, also known as “Gobindar” (35), originally from Fezi village, currently serves as a quarter administrator in Maungdaw by appointment of the Arakan militias.
Residents said he has been exploiting the conflict situation to seize household belongings left behind by Rohingya families who fled their homes, and selling the items to traders from Buthidaung and Rathedaung townships.
Sources said the stolen property included household furniture, beds, doors, windows and plywood used in construction.
A ward resident, Kyaw Aye, said the local official “abuses the authority given to him by the Arakan militias, intimidates residents, extorts money without reason and behaves aggressively.” He added: “Because of his repeated threats, no one dares to speak publicly.”
Eyewitnesses reported that a theft incident occurred on the night of December 5, when property belonging to the daughter of a resident who had fled violence was taken. The following morning, a trader from Buthidaung was seen transporting the items in a “Tiba” truck, confirming the alleged sale.
Amid growing fear and concern in the community, residents have urged the leadership of the Arakan militias and concerned authorities to immediately suspend the accused from his position, launch an official investigation and hold him accountable in accordance with the law.
Maungdaw and other parts of northern Arakan State have faced worsening security and humanitarian conditions since fighting resumed between the Myanmar military / military council in Myanmar and Arakan militias (separatist Buddhist) in late 2023.
The conflict has forced thousands of Rohingya families to flee, leaving their homes and property behind, making them vulnerable to looting and exploitation.
Local and human rights reports indicate rising violations against Rohingya in Maungdaw, Buthidaung and Rathedaung, including property confiscation, extortion and movement restrictions, amid the absence of effective civilian protection mechanisms and continued security vacuum in the region.
