Episode: KPN 14-08-2026

Rohingya residents allege AA is cutting village trees and bamboo to build camp in Northern Maungdaw

Residents of Thu Oo La (Kho Hla Bhil) village in northern Maungdaw Township, Rakhine State, have accused the Arakan Army (AA) of cutting down trees and bamboo groves belonging to Rohingya villagers to construct a new military camp, according to local sources.

Villagers told KPN that preparations for the reported AA camp have been underway for the past two to three days. They alleged that timber and bamboo required for the construction are being taken directly from the village without the consent of the owners.

Among the affected properties, residents said, were bamboo groves belonging to the village mosque, which they claim have been completely cleared.

Locals Say Rohingya Property Is Being Used

According to community members, workers from nearby Rakhine villages have been brought into Thu Oo La to assist with the construction.

The workers are reportedly staying at the village school while preparations continue for the construction of the camp.

Residents further alleged that the planned military facility is being built on land traditionally owned or used by Rohingya families.

KPN has not been able to independently verify these claims, and the Arakan Army has not publicly commented on the allegations.

Villagers Report Fear of Speaking Out

Local sources said Rohingya villagers are reluctant to protest the cutting of their trees and bamboo because they fear retaliation.

According to residents, those affected believe they could face intimidation or violence if they object to the confiscation of their property.

One local source alleged that AA members have been freely taking timber and bamboo from Rohingya-owned land without compensation or prior consultation.

Rights Activist Raises Concerns

A Rohingya human rights activist said the reported actions reflect broader concerns about restrictions imposed on the community in areas under AA control.

“The Rohingya were freed from military rule but now face another form of control. Restrictions on movement, displacement from villages, property confiscation, and forced labour undermine the community’s freedom and security,” the activist told KPN.

KPN could not independently verify the allegations of forced labour or systematic property confiscation. No response from the Arakan Army was available at the time of publication.

Tagged as: Kutupalong, Cox's Bazar, Rohingya boat people, Maungdaw, Military Council force, Rakhine, IIMM, Rathedaung, ARSA, Rohingya, war crimes, Rohingya Refugee, Camp schools, Akyab, ICC, Rohingya refugee camp, community schools, APBn, ICJ, RRRC, foods shortage, Balukhali, accountability, Sittwe, hungers, Bangadesh refugee camp, Bangladesh, Teknaf, ration cut, BGP, Genocide Convention, Burma-Bangladesh border, Arakan, RSO, Buthidaung, BGB, Burma, Malaysia going boat, IDP camp in Arakan, Arakan Army, Myanmar, Military navy.