Over 13,000 Rohingyas Evacuated Amid Intensifying Conflict in Myanmar’s Maungdaw

More than 20,000 Rohingya Muslims and other residents have fled Maungdaw township in western Myanmar due to escalating violence between the military and the Arakan Army (AA), RFA reported yesterday.

Since August 7, the AA has taken control of two-thirds of the township, leading to the evacuation of over 15,000 individuals, including 13,000 Rohingyas and hundreds of ethnic Rakhines and Hindus. Many of the displaced are seeking refuge in shelters provided by the AA, while others attempt to cross into Bangladesh.

Recent violence has resulted in homemade rockets and artillery fire targeting Rohingyas waiting to escape, with estimates of casualties reaching up to 200. The AA claims to have rescued civilians, while local volunteers emphasize the need for food, shelter, and security for those affected. The conflict has intensified since the military coup in 2021, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis for the stateless Rohingya population.