Motorists fined K30,000 for traffic violations in AA controlled areas

By Admin 05 Feb 2026

DMG Newsroom

5 February 2026, Minbya

Authorities in townships under the control of the Arakan Army (AA) are strictly enforcing traffic rules to improve road safety and reduce accidents, with local courts imposing fines on violators, according to sources.

As part of the enforcement drive, the Department of Law Enforcement and Public Security (DLEPS) in Minbya Township took legal action against more than 300 people for traffic violations in January.

“In Minbya, legal action is being taken against those who fail to wear helmets or violate traffic regulations. In January alone, more than 380 motorbikes were involved in such cases,” said a source close to the DLEPS in Minbya. “Minbya has one of the highest rates of motorcycle accidents compared to other townships, which is why enforcement has been intensified.”

Under Section 87 of the Road Safety Law, individuals who fail to wear helmets, carry more than two passengers on motorcycles, or neglect to wear seatbelts in cars face fines of K30,000 or imprisonment, as determined by the courts.

Local residents said Minbya Township records the highest number of car and motorcycle accidents in Arakan State, making stricter enforcement necessary to protect lives.

“Minbya is different from other towns. Because accidents are so frequent here, the DLEPS requires violators—whether for lacking helmets, horns or rearview mirrors—to appear in court and pay fines,” said a Minbya resident.

While many residents support the safety measures, some travelers from distant areas said the inspections have caused difficulties, particularly during emergencies.

“Last week, I traveled from Taungup to Mrauk-U for business. When I reached Minbya, I was detained for a long time because I wasn’t wearing a helmet. My motorbike was seized and I had to pay a fine. It took a lot of time, and many people travel urgently like me,” said a traveler from Taungup.

The United League of Arakan (ULA) is also reportedly inspecting cars, hand tractors, three-wheeled motorbikes, sidecars and other vehicles to ensure they have functioning lights, horns, rearview mirrors and windshields, as well as overall structural safety.

In addition to enforcement, authorities are conducting awareness programmes to promote systematic parking and compliance with traffic safety standards.

The Arakan Army is accelerating its administrative, judicial and educational mechanisms in AA-controlled areas, with tighter traffic regulation forming part of broader efforts to maintain public order.