ARSA’s military activities raise security concerns among ethnic communities in Mayu Mountains

Local ethnic communities in Arakan (Rakhine) State’s Buthidaung, Maungdaw and Rathedaung townships, areas under the control of the Arakan Army (AA), have voiced growing concerns over their security amid recent activities by the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA).

Residents reported that ARSA armed combatants have recently been seen moving through villages and forested areas along the Mayu Mountains, which lie between Buthidaung and Maungdaw townships.

“We’re really worried that ARSA could attack at any time in Buthidaung, Maungdaw and Rathedaung townships. As traders, we’re especially concerned that Muslim armed groups might target us using guerrilla tactics. Small tribal communities are hit hardest because they rely on terrace farming and often have to travel to very remote areas,” said a resident of Buthidaung Township.