Episode: KPN 08-06-2026

Rohingya residents allege harassment and discriminatory treatment at Shwe Zar checkpoint in Maungdaw

Rohingya residents in Maungdaw Township have alleged that they are facing harassment, discriminatory treatment, and humiliation at a checkpoint operated by the Arakan Army (AA) in Shwe Zar Ward, according to local community members and eyewitnesses.

Residents claim that Rohingya traveling from villages in northern Maungdaw to the town center are required to present recommendation letters issued by local AA authorities before being allowed to pass through the Shwe Zar bridge checkpoint.

According to local sources, those unable to present the required documents are often denied entry into Maungdaw town.

Allegations of Humiliating Punishments

Eyewitnesses told local media that some Rohingya travelers have reportedly been subjected to physical punishments, including being ordered to perform repeated squats, for what residents describe as minor or unclear administrative issues.

Community members said individuals have allegedly been forced to perform between 30 and 50 squats if recommendation letters contain marks, stains, or other perceived irregularities.

“These measures appear arbitrary and are often carried out without any clear explanation,” one resident said.

The allegations could not be independently verified, and the Arakan Army had not publicly commented on the claims at the time of publication.

Four Religious Leaders Reportedly Stopped at Checkpoint

According to witnesses, four mosque imams from Paung Zar village were stopped at the Shwe Zar bridge checkpoint on June 5 while traveling to Maungdaw town.

The religious leaders were reportedly carrying recommendation letters issued by local authorities.

Witnesses alleged that the four men were forced to perform approximately 30 squats at gunpoint after checkpoint personnel claimed there were black marks on their documents.

Individuals familiar with the incident stated that the recommendation letters were neither expired nor damaged.

Community Concerns Over Discrimination

The incident has sparked concern among members of the local Rohingya community, who say they believe the treatment reflects broader discrimination against Rohingya residents.

A local resident questioned the justification for the alleged punishment.

“The documents were valid and had not expired,” he said. “Many people believe they were treated unfairly because they are Islamic religious leaders. That is why community members feel deeply concerned about this incident.”

Community representatives say such experiences contribute to growing fears among Rohingya residents regarding freedom of movement and equal treatment under local administrative practices.

Calls for Fair Treatment

Local community leaders have called for authorities to ensure that all residents are treated fairly and with dignity regardless of ethnicity or religion.

Human rights observers have frequently stressed that restrictions on movement and discriminatory treatment can further deepen tensions in communities already affected by conflict and displacement.

As of publication, no official response had been issued by the Arakan Army regarding the allegations raised by local residents and witnesses.

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