The situation in Myanmar remains dire as intensified clashes between the military-led junta and ethnic rebel groups continue, particularly in the Rakhine state. Recent reports reveal that nearly 5,000 houses belonging to Buddhists and Hindus have been destroyed in Buthidaung, a town just 25 kilometers from the Bangladesh border.
“These 5,000 houses were targeted because they belonged to Buddhists and Hindus,” a source disclosed. “Most residents had already fled to safer areas, so many of the houses were empty. However, those who stayed behind were forcibly removed, and their homes were looted and set ablaze right before their eyes. Young conscripts, including boys from Rohingya refugee camps in Bangladesh, are being used for these attacks.”
The destruction occurred between April 11 and April 21, and Buthidaung is now entirely under the control of the Arakan Army, an ethnic rebel group. Despite the communal nature of these attacks, local Muslims in Buthidaung and Maungdaw townships have not supported the violence. Many have sought assistance from ethnic rebels to relocate to safer areas.
“In the 2018 census, there were 3,000 houses in Buthidaung. This number has more than tripled to 10,000 as people fleeing violence in other areas have settled here. Over 50 percent of the residents are Muslims, while the remaining are ethnic groups, including Buddhists and Hindus,” the source added.
This recent escalation echoes the communal tensions that flared up in Rakhine state more than a decade ago, leading to the mass exodus of Rohingyas to Bangladesh. Currently, there are reports that some Rohingyas from refugee camps are being forcibly conscripted. While a few manage to escape, others are coerced into fighting civilians, exacerbating the conflict through a strategy of divide and rule.
As violence intensifies, thousands of young people across Myanmar are fleeing to safer zones, with some crossing into neighboring countries to avoid forced conscription.
Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister, Hasan Mahmud, recently expressed hope that the Rohingya refugees, currently numbering about one million in Bangladesh, would soon return to Myanmar. “They want to go back to their homeland,” Mahmud stated, addressing the refugee situation and also confirming that 138 Myanmar military personnel, including a lieutenant colonel and two majors, had sought refuge in Bangladesh. “They will be sent back in the same way as other military men were repatriated,” he added.
The displacement has left many struggling for survival due to a lack of livelihood opportunities. The onset of the monsoon season, expected in a few weeks, might offer a temporary respite. The heavy rains and resultant restricted mobility usually lead to a reduction in ground clashes, providing a brief period of relief for nearly two months.
As the conflict in Myanmar continues to displace thousands and destroy communities, the international community watches closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis.
