Arakan Army beefs up security along Bangladesh border

By Admin 13 May 2026

DMG Newsroom

13 May 2026, Maungdaw

The Arakan Army (AA) has recently strengthened security measures along the border between Arakan State and Bangladesh in Maungdaw Township, according to local residents.

People familiar with the situation said security along the border has been tightened to help maintain regional stability and prevent the movement of Muslim armed groups.

The Arakan Army has informed residents that anyone travelling for essential matters or emergency medical reasons must first report to administrative and security checkpoints operated by the United League of Arakan before continuing their journey.

In addition, the Arakan Army has advised people not to travel alone or in small groups through forested or remote areas.

“Previously, there were around 10 Arakan Army members at a security gate, but now we see more than 20 or 30. These measures are a positive development. I am also happy to see many Muslims peacefully cooperating with the Arakan Army recently,” a Maungdaw resident said.

Muslim armed groups have reportedly established bases near the Bangladesh border and frequently cross into Arakan State to carry out attacks.

Alongside increased security operations in border areas, the Arakan Army has also intensified patrols and security activities in Arakan waters.

The Arakan Coast Guard, which operates under the Arakan Army, has frequently detained Bangladeshi fishermen accused of illegally entering Arakan waters and later returned them to the Bangladeshi side.

Speaking about border security in Maungdaw Township during an exclusive interview with The Diplomat, Arakan Army chief Maj-Gen Twan Mrat Naing said:

“We are providing assistance to remote villages, especially those inhabited by the ethnic Mro people. Some among them have been involved in the drug trade. We have also received reports that some individuals are collaborating with the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army. It is not surprising that many people were killed in clashes between groups. Before the liberation of Maungdaw, the military and drug lords like Dil Mohammad were heavily involved in drug trafficking. Now, we are focusing on that area to improve security for local residents,” Maj-Gen Twan Mrat Naing said.

He added that the Arakan Army hopes to cooperate with Bangladesh to create a more favorable environment regarding border affairs and the repatriation of Muslim refugees.

However, the Arakan Army chief also said it would be difficult to create such conditions without recognition of the United League of Arakan, adding that the Arakan Army is prepared to face any situation.

The Arakan Army captured all of Maungdaw Township in December 2024 and is currently continuing border security, administrative, and rule of law operations in the area.