Arakan Army Releases Three Muslim Family Members on Humanitarian Grounds

News ၊ June 5, 2026

Arakan Army Releases Three Muslim Family Members on Humanitarian Grounds (Photo - ABN)

The Arakan Army (AA) Coast Guard has released three Muslim family members on humanitarian grounds after a 40-day investigation cleared them of any involvement in a cross-border drug smuggling operation.

The individuals, who had fled conflict in Maungdaw Township in 2024 to reside in Teknaf, Bangladesh, were initially apprehended while returning to Sittwe on a commercial vessel to seek medical care.

According to an official from the Arakan People's Revolutionary Government, the family was formally handed over to their relatives in the presence of jury members and the Muslim Affairs Committee, with all confiscated personal items, including mobile phones, fully returned.

The incident originated on April 24 at approximately 1:20 PM when the AA Coast Guard intercepted a disabled boat anchored near the coast between Donpaik and Chaingkhali villages in Rathedaung Township.

A search of the vessel, which carried seven Bangladeshi nationals alongside the family, uncovered 23 packages of marijuana totaling approximately 26 kilograms, along with medical supplies, four mobile phones, and 500 Bangladeshi Taka.

A second boat carrying four Bangladeshi nationals who arrived to retrieve the stranded vessel was also seized, bringing the total number of detainees to 11.

Following the release of the three innocent family members, the remaining eight suspects remain in custody and will face legal prosecution under the judicial procedures of the Arakan People's Revolutionary Government.