Muslim Militant Groups Kidnap and Extort Muslim Traders Along the Arakan-Bangladesh Border

News ၊ May 6, 2026

Arakan - Bangladesh border and ARSA member shotting the civilians (Photo - Google map and ARSA telegram)

Muslim militant groups including RSO, ARSA, and ARA are reportedly threatening, kidnapping, and extorting Muslim traders engaged in cross-border trade along the Arakan-Bangladesh border, according to sources in Bangladesh.

Reports indicate that ARSA members have specifically extorted Muslim traders operating in the Palongkhali border area within Ukhiya, Bangladesh.

Local residents stated that ARSA has increased its activities and reinforced its manpower, particularly in the Balukhali and Palongkhali regions. Furthermore, these groups are reportedly active even in areas close to Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) camps.

While authorities have not yet issued an official statement regarding these incidents, residents report that security tensions remain high in the border region.

Source@ABN