August 13, 2024

In the ongoing conflict in Maungdaw, a border town between Myanmar and Bangladesh, the Arakan Army (AA) has evacuated over 13,000 Rohingya along with Rakhine and Hindu residents trapped amidst the fighting since August 7, 2024. Reports indicate that around 5,000 Rohingya remain stranded in Maungdaw, primarily in areas controlled by the Myanmar military.

The AA successfully penetrated the heavily fortified defenses of the Myanmar military in Maungdaw on August 7, 2024. As of now, the AA reportedly controls three-quarters of the town, including central districts. The Rohingya who were evacuated are now being sheltered in safe areas provided by the AA, while some are making plans to cross into Bangladesh, reuniting with relatives there.

Rohingya activists emphasize the need for the AA to ensure the security of the evacuated Rohingya. With ongoing clashes in the town, it is crucial for both the Myanmar military and the AA to protect civilians from harm.

Reports suggest that the Myanmar military had been using civilians as human shields to defend Maungdaw, a practice the AA claims to have intervened to prevent.

Video source: AA Info Desk.