ROHINGYA HUMAN RIGHTS CENTER

OCTOBER 2026  |  MYANMAR & BANGLADESH

Protection • Accountability • Humanitarian Response • The Right to Return

A MONTHLY NEWSLETTER

A month of continuing uncertainty—and a reminder that people’s rights, safety, and dignity must remain at the centre of every response.

IN THIS ISSUE

• Movement restrictions and protection concerns in Arakan State
• Reports of pressure to join military training and the taking of a minor
• Homes, land, displacement, and the right to return
• Rohingya returnees questioned after arrival in Myanmar
• Calls for accountability and international justice
• Repatriation diplomacy and support for host communities
• Security and child protection in Bangladesh’s refugee camps
• Rohingya youth promote responsible communication and peace

A HUMAN RIGHTS SNAPSHOT

Reports received in early October describe the daily pressures facing Rohingya communities: difficulty travelling to markets and essential services, fear surrounding alleged recruitment, uncertainty over homes and land, and questions about the safety of people returned to Myanmar. In Bangladesh, refugee protection, camp security, child safety, humanitarian funding, and the need for a credible path toward voluntary and sustainable repatriation remain urgent concerns.

The accounts in this newsletter are based on information provided to RHRC and the sources identified in the original reporting. Allegations are presented as allegations where they have not been independently verified. The safety and privacy of children and other people at risk are prioritised.

1. FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT AND CIVILIAN PROTECTION

Kyauktaw residents describe growing barriers to everyday travel

3 October 2026  |  Kyauktaw, Arakan State

For Rohingya residents in Kyauktaw Township, travelling to a market, workplace, neighbouring village, or urgent service has reportedly become more difficult. Three residents told RHRC that travellers may need recommendation letters from several local offices, and that people without the required documents have been turned back at checkpoints operated by the Arakan Army (AA).

Residents estimated that the letters could cost around 12,000 kyats in total. They also reported that obtaining household registration documents could cost between 70,000 and 80,000 kyats. For families already facing economic hardship, these expenses can make ordinary movement even harder.

Residents said people whose identity documents are not accepted by the authorities face additional obstacles. These accounts raise concerns about access to essential services, freedom of movement, and the financial burden placed on Rohingya households.

Source note: Accounts from three Rohingya residents documented by RHRC.

Three young Rohingya women reportedly ordered to appear in court

8 October 2026  |  Maungdaw, Arakan State

Three young Rohingya women, aged 16, 17, and 18, were reportedly ordered to appear before a court in Maungdaw after allegedly trying to leave their villages without permission from AA authorities. Local sources said the women intended to travel to Malaysia and were detained in connection with leaving their villages without authorisation.

Their families were reportedly worried about the legal proceedings. At the time of reporting, it was not clear whether the women had appeared in court, whether formal charges had been filed, or whether they remained in custody.

RHRC is withholding their identities to protect their privacy and safety, particularly because two of the women are minors.

Rohingya youth in Kyauktaw report pressure to attend military training

9 October 2026  |  Kyauktaw, Arakan State

Rohingya residents in Kyauktaw reported that young men were being pressured to attend military training organised by the Arakan Army. According to residents, requests were conveyed through village administrators and local leaders. Some young men reportedly feared punishment or detention if they refused.

Families expressed concern about what this could mean for their livelihoods, especially when a husband or another main income earner might be required to leave home for training or military duties. Residents also alleged that AA members entered villages, questioned people, and demanded money.

The AA’s response to these latest allegations was not available at the time of publication. The reported concerns sit within wider documentation by human rights organisations and the UN human rights office regarding alleged forced recruitment and restrictions affecting Rohingya communities.

Source note: Rohingya resident accounts documented by RHRC; the AA’s response was not available at publication.

Seventeen-year-old girl reportedly taken from Buthidaung village

7 October 2026  |  Buthidaung, Arakan State

RHRC received information that a 17-year-old Rohingya girl was reportedly taken from Wara Chowan village at around 2:00 p.m. on 7 October by individuals local sources identified as members of the Arakan Army.

The information received by RHRC suggested that she may have been taken for recruitment into the armed group. However, her whereabouts, condition, and the circumstances of the incident had not been independently established at the time of publication.

Because the girl is a minor, RHRC is not publishing her name. Protecting the identity of children is essential when disclosure could expose them to further harm.

Source note: Information received by RHRC; details had not been independently established.

2. DISPLACEMENT, LAND, AND THE RIGHT TO RETURN

Reports of new settlements on former Rohingya village sites raise land concerns

6 October 2026  |  Maungdaw, Arakan State

For Rohingya families displaced from their homes, the future of their land remains deeply uncertain. Residents in northern Maungdaw told RHRC that new houses were being built on land where Rohingya villages had previously stood.

According to local sources, land along the road between Kyee Kan Pyin and Kyi Kan Chaung was being cleared for Rakhine families displaced by fighting elsewhere in Arakan State. Residents reported that 55 displaced Rakhine families from Rathedaung and Ponnagyun townships had arrived at the La Pho Khaung relief camp and were expected to move into newly built houses.

Residents also alleged that some families had been moved into homes previously occupied by Rohingya who fled during fighting in 2024. Similar reports had emerged from other parts of Maungdaw.

The reported developments raise serious questions for displaced Rohingya families about whether they will be able to return to their original homes and reclaim their land and property. These allegations about land use and settlement require independent verification.

Source note: Local accounts shared with RHRC; the allegations require independent verification.

3. RETURNS, DETENTION, AND CROSS-BORDER PROTECTION

Rohingya among Myanmar returnees reportedly questioned after arrival

5 October 2026  |  Yangon, Myanmar

At least 153 Rohingya were reportedly among 1,476 Myanmar nationals returned from Malaysia who were separated from other returnees for questioning, according to Khin Tin Media.

The group reportedly arrived at the Thanlyin naval base near Yangon on 4 October aboard Myanmar military vessels. The returnees had reportedly been held in immigration detention in Malaysia before being returned.

The report said 153 Rohingya and 152 Rakhine people were questioned separately by military intelligence, police intelligence, and Special Branch personnel. Rohingya returnees were reportedly asked how they had left Myanmar and travelled to Malaysia. The report also indicated that they could face further action under Myanmar immigration laws.

Relatives of some returnees were reportedly waiting for information about their family members. The case highlights the importance of monitoring the treatment of people returned to a country where armed conflict continues and ensuring that their safety and rights are protected.

Source note: Khin Tin Media, as cited in the original report.

4. ACCOUNTABILITY AND INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE

Rohingya representatives call for credible investigations into alleged crimes

9 October 2026  |  Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh

Representatives of the United Council of Rohingya (UCR) met Nicholas Koumjian, head of the UN Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM), to discuss accountability for alleged serious crimes against Rohingya civilians.

According to UCR, the representatives raised concerns about reported abuses in Arakan State, including allegations involving the Arakan Army. They called for credible allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity to be examined independently, and for all those responsible for serious international crimes to face justice.

The discussion covered the IIMM’s role in collecting, preserving, and analysing evidence that may be used in criminal proceedings. Participants also discussed international legal efforts relating to crimes against the Rohingya, including proceedings at the International Criminal Court, The Gambia’s genocide case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice, and legal action in Argentina.

UCR stressed that accountability must apply to all perpetrators, regardless of position, identity, or affiliation. It also linked justice to the possibility of safe and voluntary return, supported by security guarantees, citizenship, and respect for fundamental rights.

The information shared about the meeting did not announce a new investigation or a specific IIMM commitment concerning the allegations against the AA.

Source note: United Council of Rohingya (UCR).

5. HUMANITARIAN DIPLOMACY AND SUSTAINABLE REPATRIATION

Bangladesh seeks continued South Korean support for Rohingya return efforts

October 2026  |  Seoul, South Korea

Bangladesh has sought continued support from South Korea for efforts to make the sustainable repatriation of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar possible.

According to Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir raised the issue during a meeting with South Korean First Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Park Yoon-joo in Seoul. Kobir thanked South Korea for its humanitarian assistance and requested continued support for an early and sustainable return.

The meeting also covered bilateral relations, trade, investment, development cooperation, and regional affairs. The publicly reported account did not identify a new South Korean funding commitment or a specific new initiative on repatriation.

Source note: Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as cited in the original report.

Rohingya representatives call for a clear repatriation roadmap and support for host communities

7 October 2026  |  Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh

Rohingya representatives called for a clear roadmap towards safe and sustainable repatriation while urging the international community to provide stronger support to the Bangladeshi communities hosting refugees.

The calls were made at a roundtable titled “Towards Ten Years of Solidarity – From Emergency Response to Sustainable Solutions,” organised by the NGOs Platform Cox’s Bazar with Swiss support and hosted by Plan International.

UCR representatives Khin Maung and Sajida Begum highlighted the ongoing needs of Rohingya refugees and local host communities. They stressed that humanitarian assistance must continue, development gaps must be addressed, and Rohingya people must have a meaningful voice in decisions about their future.

They also emphasised the importance of social cohesion between Rohingya refugees and host communities. The discussion took place amid funding pressures on humanitarian agencies and the continuing absence of large-scale voluntary repatriation to Myanmar.

Source note: United Council of Rohingya (UCR), based on information shared about the roundtable.

6. SECURITY AND PROTECTION IN BANGLADESH’S REFUGEE CAMPS

Bangladesh announces additional security measures for refugee camps

9 October 2026  |  Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh

Bangladesh authorities announced plans to establish two additional army camps and expand surveillance in Rohingya refugee camps, citing concerns about abductions, extortion, drug trafficking, and armed-group activity.

According to Banglanews24, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed announced the proposed measures after a meeting of the National Committee on Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals. Plans include repairing damaged barbed-wire fencing, installing CCTV cameras and solar-powered lighting, and adding watchtowers and control towers. Two new army camps are planned for the hilly areas of Rongikhali and Noakhalipara.

The government also announced expanded investigative authority for approximately 400 sub-inspector-level Armed Police Battalion officers concerning offences involving drug trafficking, online gambling, and human trafficking.

Authorities had not provided a detailed timetable for completing the planned installations. Their practical impact on refugee safety and daily life remains to be seen. Security measures should protect residents while respecting their rights and dignity.

Source note: Banglanews24, as cited in the original report.

Death of four-year-old boy renews concerns about child safety in the camps

12 October 2026  |  Camp 15, Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar

The death of four-year-old Mohammed Omair has brought renewed attention to the safety of children and the fears faced by families in the refugee camps. The child was reported missing from Camp 15 on 8 October and his body was reportedly found on 10 October in Jamtoli refugee camp.

Reports citing the Armed Police Battalion said police arrested a couple on suspicion of involvement in the child’s alleged abduction and killing. The child’s father reportedly said a ransom of Tk 50,000 had been demanded.

Investigators said the precise cause of death remained subject to further examination, and the body was sent for a post-mortem. Legal proceedings were underway at the time of reporting; the circumstances of the death and the suspects’ alleged involvement remained under investigation.

This tragic case underlines the importance of effective child-protection measures, timely investigations, and support for families affected by violence. The presumption of innocence must be respected while the investigation proceeds.

Source note: Reports citing the Armed Police Battalion (APBn); investigation ongoing at the time of reporting.

7. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT, RESPONSIBLE MEDIA, AND PEACEBUILDING

Rohingya youth encourage action against hate speech and misinformation

10 October 2026  |  Bangladesh

Rohingya youth, media workers, and community members gathered at Café Highway Restaurant to discuss hate speech, misinformation, and ways to strengthen understanding among communities connected to Buthidaung, Maungdaw, and Rathedaung.

According to information shared with RHRC, participants warned that misleading social media posts, insulting language, and unverified claims can deepen mistrust and divide communities. They encouraged journalists, video creators, and social media users to check information before sharing it and to avoid blaming an entire community for the actions of individuals.

The discussion highlighted respectful communication, cooperation among young people, and peaceful ways of resolving disagreements. Participants encouraged young Rohingya to challenge discriminatory messages and promote mutual respect, regardless of regional background.

Further details about the organisers, the number of participants, and any specific decisions were not available in the initial report. Even so, the message is important: responsible communication can help protect people from harm and create space for dialogue.

Source note: Information shared with RHRC.

WHY THESE STORIES MATTER

Behind every report are people trying to keep their families safe, earn a living, preserve their homes, and hold on to hope. Restrictions on movement can mean missed work or delayed care. Alleged recruitment can leave families afraid for their children. Uncertainty over land can make the prospect of return feel even more distant. And in refugee camps, families need security that protects them without compromising their dignity or rights.

The developments covered in this issue reinforce several priorities: protect civilians; investigate credible allegations impartially; safeguard children and other people at risk; preserve the rights and property claims of displaced people; sustain humanitarian support for refugees and host communities; and ensure that any return to Myanmar is voluntary, safe, dignified, and sustainable.

RHRC’S CONTINUING PRIORITIES

• Independent and impartial investigation of credible allegations of serious human rights abuses.
• Protection of children, women, and other people at heightened risk, with privacy and safety at the centre.
• Freedom of movement and access to essential services without unreasonable or discriminatory barriers.
• Protection of displaced people’s homes, land, and property rights, alongside fair processes for resolving claims.
• Accountability for serious international crimes, regardless of the identity or affiliation of alleged perpetrators.
• Continued humanitarian assistance and stronger support for refugee-hosting communities in Bangladesh.
• A credible path to voluntary, safe, dignified, and sustainable Rohingya repatriation, with rights and security guaranteed.
• Responsible media and community dialogue to counter hate speech, misinformation, and collective blame.

EDITORIAL NOTE

This newsletter is based on the information contained in the source material provided to RHRC for October 2026. Some accounts rely on resident testimony, local sources, or media reports and have not been independently verified. Where relevant, this is stated clearly. Allegations should not be treated as established findings, and individuals mentioned in connection with ongoing investigations are presumed innocent unless proven guilty through a fair process. Dates, spellings, figures, and institutional descriptions should be checked against original sources before public release.

ROHINGYA HUMAN RIGHTS CENTER (RHRC)

Documenting concerns. Amplifying voices. Advancing dignity, protection, and justice.