Maungdaw, Arakan State | April 1, 2026 , Two civilians were found dead in northern Maungdaw Township after reportedly being abducted and beheaded in Tha Yet Oek Village, raising serious concerns over civilian safety in the region.
“Villagers in northern Maungdaw live under growing fear due to security incidents.”
Local residents identified the victims as Dowla Ya (also known as Enus), 21, and Muhammad Sawlam, 22, who were working as tenants at a fishpond shelter owned by a local resident in Thayetoke Village.
According to multiple residents, the two men were detained on the evening of March 27 by members of the Arakan Army (AA). They were reportedly held for four days before being beheaded. Their bodies were later discovered buried in a shallow pit near a pond close to Thu U Lar Village.
“The fishpond near Thayetoke Village where the victims worked as tenants.”
“They were taken at night, and after that, no one heard from them again,” said one resident from Tha Yet Oek Village, speaking on condition of anonymity due to security concerns.“We were not allowed to move freely during those days.”
Residents from Tha Yet Oek, Thu U Lar, and Da Gyi Zar villages reported that movement restrictions were imposed during the period the victims were missing. Access to the area was restored on the morning the bodies were discovered.
“Movement in several villages was restricted during the period the victims were missing.”
“We noticed a strong smell and went to check. That is when we found the bodies buried near the pond,” another villager said.“People are very afraid now. Some families are already preparing to leave.”
The incident has heightened fear among local communities, with several residents reportedly fleeing to other areas due to growing insecurity.
Image: AI
“Some families are reportedly preparing to leave due to growing insecurity.”
A local community leader, who also requested anonymity, said civilians feel increasingly vulnerable.
“There is no guarantee of safety for ordinary people. We are worried this could happen again,” the leader said.
Independent verification of the incident remains difficult due to restricted access to the area. Attempts to obtain comment from the Arakan Army were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
Observers and local sources say the beheading of civilians under such circumstances may constitute a serious violation of international human rights standards.
Residents are urging relevant authorities and international organizations to conduct a prompt and impartial investigation and take measures to ensure the protection of civilians.
