AA forcefully recruits indigenous Mro youth in Maungdaw
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Phyo/ Thuta Kyaw (NP News) - Jan 21
A Rakhine ethnic source informed The NP News that indigenous Mro people in Maungdaw Township, Rakhine State, are fleeing due to the AA's lawless and immoral recruitment of them for their public service.
The source stated that this recruitment began in mid-December of the past year, and during the recruitment process, individuals were forcibly captured and bound with ropes.
The source mentioned, "Their army is weak, so according to orders, they came to Maungdaw’s Thittonenar Kwasone village on December 23, around 1 pm, with about 100 personnel. They entered every house and knocked on doors. They also used their feet to break down doors. In the end, 42 young people were captured, bound with ropes, and taken away."
The source further stated, "After this incident, shortly after, when most people were asleep, the forces entered Nanyarkine village and arrested 36 more young people. Additionally, they beat the indigenous women of the village who begged for their children not to be taken, and they also threatened them with arms."
The source also mentioned, "I have heard that this has happened in other villages as well. However, due to the lack of communication, it is difficult for me to speak about it. But it is certain that this is the method they are using. However, I cannot provide concrete details, but I know that it is happening. Now, the young people do not sleep at home at night. Some of them have even fled as far as Bangladesh."
According to information obtained by The NP News, it is known that among those abducted from Nanyarkine village, 23 students ranging from Grade 7 to Grade 10 have been included.