Six Muslim Fishermen Arrested Again by Myanmar Junta in Pauktaw Township, Arakan

Six Muslim fishermen were reportedly arrested on January 27 by Myanmar’s military junta while fishing in Pauktaw Township, Arakan State, according to local sources.

The detainees were identified as Yama Mauk (20) and Chawchi Larme (25) from Anout Ye’ Muslim Village in Pauktaw Township; Mamau Ayaw (25) from Thit Kay Pin Auk Village; Khore Ma Li (26) from Nat Chin Village; and Saru Laman (26) and Awzi Raman (36).

Sources said the fishermen were apprehended near Santaw Shin Island by a junta naval unit and transported to Sittwe, where they are currently being held at Police Station No. 1.

A Pauktaw resident expressed concern over the arrests, saying, “They are targeting fishermen like this. How are the families left behind supposed to survive? Because of these arrests, people are now afraid even to go out fishing.”

Local residents reported that continued arrests of fishermen at sea have created widespread fear, preventing many from fishing and resulting in growing livelihood and food security challenges across the area.

Similar incidents were reported on December 22, 2025, when junta forces arrested 28 Muslim fishermen from a Muslim village in Pauktaw Township and seized three fishing boats.

Family members said those previously detained, as well as the six recently arrested fishermen, have not yet been released.