June 18, 2025
RHRC-Recent incidents in Rohingya communities highlight a dangerous rise in violence, forced relegation, and restrictions on religious freedom. From shootings and abductions to oppressive curfews and evictions, Rohingya people are once again enduring multiple layers of persecution and instability.
Mentally Challenged Youth Shot Dead in Nayapara Camp
On June 16, Alamgir (18), a mentally challenged youth, was shot dead in Nayapara Registered Camp in Teknaf while returning home after performing prayer at mosque. He had an altercation with several individuals linked to the notorious Saleh group. Observers stated that Nur Hasan, the uncle of robber Saleh, shot him in the face. Though family members rushed him to Teknaf Upazila Hospital, he was declared dead. Teknaf Police recovered the body and verified an investigation is underway.
Religious Freedom Violated by AA Curfew in Maungdaw
The Arakan Army (AA) imposed a new 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM curfew across northern Maungdaw on June 16, directly targeting the local Muslim population by preventing them from attending evening and early morning prayers at mosques, an essential religious obligation in Islam. Previously, a 10:00 PM curfew still allowed some religious observance. Now, three of the five daily Islamic prayers fall within the curfew hours, forcing Muslims to supplicate at home under trouble of discipline. Original elders view the measure as a blatant violation of religious rights and discriminatory in nature.
Abducted Rohingya Youth Saved from Mountains
Hafiz Ullah, a Rohingya youth from Camp-15 in Ukhiya, was kidnaped on June 11 by fortified criminals impersonating members of RAB. The abductors demanded Tk 15 lakh ransom and threatened to kill the victim if authorities were communicated. Following coordinated operations involving RAB, BGB, police, and forest officials, Hafiz was saved after 72 hours from the Rangikhali hills. A dismissed soldier, Sumon Munshi, was arrested with RAB gear and weapons. Authorities plan to intensify future operations to suppress criminal activity in the area.
AA Forces Rohingya to leave Buthidaung Wards Again
On June 15, the Arakan Army ordered displaced Rohingya families living in wards of Buthidaung township to leave immediately. Many had resettled there after fleeing earlier violence and destruction. Locals, formerly suffering relegation and trauma, are now once again homeless. The unforeseen order has left residents in fear, with no clear destination or support from authorities.
These incidents reflect the worsening plight of the Rohingya, who continue to suffer violence, religious oppression, and relegation. Urgent attention and transnational intervention are demanded to cover their fundamental rights and ensure their safety.
