A Rohingya man from northern Rakhine State has been detained by the Arakan Army (AA), with family members and community sources alleging that he was subjected to mistreatment while in custody.

The detainee, identified as U Ashfaq (Ba) Swiyad Hussein, 42, is a food trader from Fezi village in Maungdaw Township. According to local sources, he was apprehended after traveling to Yangon for medical treatment.

Hussein had previously been residing at the Hla Pho Khaung camp since August 2024. Family members say that in December he traveled to Bangladesh to seek treatment for his wife, who is suffering from tuberculosis. The journey was reportedly undertaken with prior approval from the Arakan Army, which exercises de facto control over parts of the region.

After his wife’s condition did not improve, Hussein reportedly continued on to Yangon in search of further medical care. It was upon his arrival there that he was detained.

Allegations of Abuse

A close associate of Hussein, speaking on condition of anonymity, claimed that he showed visible signs of physical injury following his detention.

“He has cuts on his face,” the source said. “He appears to have been accused of involvement in marijuana-related activities, but he is not engaged in any illegal trade.”

The source suggested that individuals who assisted Hussein’s family during their travels may have links to illicit networks, but emphasized that Hussein himself was not involved.

The same source warned that such incidents could undermine relations between the Arakan Army and the Rohingya community. “If Rohingya civilians are treated as criminals, it will erode trust. We are calling for his immediate release,” the individual added.

Family Also Reportedly Detained

Community members further reported that Hussein’s wife—who remains seriously ill—and the couple’s only son were also taken into custody, raising additional humanitarian concerns.

Context of Anti-Smuggling Operations

The incident comes amid reports from AA-aligned media of recent anti-smuggling operations along the Rakhine coast. According to those reports, AA forces intercepted boats allegedly transporting marijuana from Bangladesh to Sittwe.

One such operation, reported to have taken place on April 24 near Rathedaung Township, resulted in the arrest of several individuals described as Bangladeshi nationals and the seizure of narcotics.

While it remains unclear whether Hussein’s case is directly linked to these operations, the timing has led to speculation among community members.

Growing Concerns

The circumstances surrounding Hussein’s detention and the allegations of mistreatment highlight broader concerns about the treatment of Rohingya civilians in areas under the control of the Arakan Army.

Human rights observers have repeatedly called for adherence to humanitarian norms, including the protection of civilians and due process guarantees, regardless of the controlling authority.

 

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