Arakan Authorities Resettle 21 Muslims Returning from Bangladesh

News

Global Arakan Network August 29, 2025

Resettlement Ceremony in Maungdaw District (photocrd)

The Arakan Government is committed to enhancing the rights of all residents in Arakan, regardless of race, religion, or cultural background. Following the Maungdaw conflict, authorities in the district have been working to resettle displaced families and individuals to restore normalcy to public and social life.

After the Maungdaw conflict, some Muslim families who had fled to Bangladesh to escape the violence were reported by local authorities to have illegally re-entered and settled in the area. Under the directive of the Maungdaw District Administrator, 21 of these individuals were temporarily detained on July 22, 2025 at the station of Department of Law Enforcement and Public Security (DLEPS) for unauthorized entry.

On August 26, following recommendations from the Maungdaw District Muslim Jury and approval from the district party committee, a formal ceremony was held to reunite these 21 Muslims with their families. The authorities released them after ensuring compliance with legal procedures.

During the process, district authorities emphasized the importance of avoiding any association with terrorist organizations. Representatives from the Maungdaw District Muslim Jury urged the returnees to live loyally to the nation, respect and adhere to government policies, and uphold Islamic values.

The Maungdaw District DLEPS official confirmed that the detainees were treated with dignity during their detention, in line with human rights standards. The authorities also advised the returnees to live responsibly and engage in lawful livelihoods post-release, offering support to meet their needs.

The 21 individuals signed a pledge of compliance with departmental procedures before being formally handed over to their families, marking a successful resettlement process.