The Crimes of ARSA Extremists and Silence of Muslim Human Rights Activists

Aung Naing Lin, Opinion, October 31, 2026

ARSA militants inside Bangladesh and Muslim HR activists (photocrd)

On October 8, ARSA militants celebrated their attacks on Myanmar border posts in 2016 as a milestone in their movement. While ARSA's top leader, Ata Ullah, remains in detention under Bangladeshi authorities, reportedly for medical reasons, other leaders have continued to celebrate the group's past activities. This raises serious questions about the group's accountability for violence and its continuing impact on civilians in Arakan.

ARSA's activities cannot be separated from the wider tragedy that has affected Arakan's communities. The group has been accused of contributing to the violence that preceded the mass displacement of Muslims into Bangladesh in 2017. It has also been linked to serious crimes, including the killing of 99 Hindu villagers in Buthidaung Township. Such incidents demonstrate why armed groups must be held accountable for crimes against civilians, regardless of their religious identity or political objectives. No cause can justify the killing of innocent people.

The concern is not limited to historical incidents. According to sources from the Humanitarian and Development Coordination Office (HDCO), from January 2024 to August 2026, ARSA militants killed 164 civilians and injured 23 others. During the same period, 30 people were arrested, while 22 were fortunate enough to return home. These figures indicate that abuses by ARSA remain a serious concern, even though the number of incidents reportedly declined in 2026. A decline in reported cases should not be mistaken for an end to the problem. (In the last March, HDCO released a comprehensive report on crimes commited by the Muslim militant groups including ARSA.)

The situation became more complicated during the fighting in 2024, when ARSA and other Muslim armed groups, including the Rohingya Solidarity Organisation (RSO),cooperated with Myanmar's military junta in attacks against the Arakan Army (AA). Such cooperation further damaged relations between communities and weakened social harmony in northern Arakan. When armed groups become involved in military operations alongside forces responsible for violence against local populations, the consequences can extend beyond the battlefield, deepening mistrust and making reconciliation more difficult.

Yet another important question remains: where are the public condemnations from Muslim human rights activists who speak internationally about justice and the protection of vulnerable communities?

Activists such as Tun Khin, Nay San Lwin, and Wai Wai Nu have advocated for the rights of their communities. Their work on human rights should not be dismissed simply because they focus on Muslim concerns. However, the principle of human rights must apply consistently. When armed groups associated with one's own community are accused of killing civilians, abducting residents, or committing other serious abuses, speaking out against such acts is an important part of defending universal human rights.

Silence does not automatically prove support for a militant group. Nevertheless, the absence of clear and consistent condemnation can raise questions about whether the same standards are being applied to all perpetrators. Human rights advocacy becomes less credible when the suffering of some communities receives attention while allegations of crimes against others are overlooked. Genuine advocacy requires courage to criticize abuses regardless of who commits them.

The international community also has a role to play. Governments in countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Germany should encourage human rights advocates and organizations to uphold consistent principles, while respecting freedom of expression and avoiding unsupported accusations. Accountability should be based on credible evidence, not political pressure or collective blame.

Ultimately, Arakan needs justice, security, and peaceful coexistence among all its communities. Achieving these goals requires condemning violence against civilians, investigating allegations impartially, and rejecting the use of religious identity to excuse crimes. ARSA must be held accountable for substantiated abuses, and human rights advocates should apply the same principles to every community. Only consistent justice can help rebuild trust and create a more peaceful future for Arakan.