Sixteen murders reported in Arakan State in three months

By Admin 02 Apr 2026

DMG Newsroom

2 April 2026, Taungup

According to the Arakan Crime and Related News Information Team, a total of 16 murder cases were reported in areas controlled by the Arakan Army in Arakan State during the three-month period from January to March 2026.

The statement noted that most of the killings occurred as a result of individuals losing self-control while under the influence of alcohol.

On March 26, a fatal stabbing took place in Shwe Thar Taung Village in Taungup Township following an argument between three men who had been drinking together.

Regarding the case, the Department of Law Enforcement and Public Security arrested two suspects on March 29 and is currently taking legal action against them in accordance with the law.

An Arakanese youth social activist said that crimes such as robbery, murder, and rape continue to pose serious threats to public security. He stressed the need for effective action against such crimes and transparent reporting to the public. He added that without proper control, such incidents would continue and could lead to criticism regarding the rule of law.

To reduce serious crimes such as murder in areas under its control, the Department of Law Enforcement and Public Security stated that it is working to prohibit and take action against the illegal production and sale of unlicensed alcohol.

It is also taking action against individuals carrying concealed weapons such as sticks and knives, and conducting legal awareness discussions and public education activities.

Under Section 302 of the Penal Code, the department announced that those convicted of murder may face sentences ranging from seven years to life imprisonment, fines, or even the death penalty.

Human rights activists noted that weak enforcement of laws in the past had led to shortcomings in the legal system and dissatisfaction among the public. They said that current efforts to establish and enforce laws are a positive development.

U Myat Tun, Director of the Arakan Human Rights Defenders and Promoters Association, said that from a human rights perspective, some judicial processes observed did not fully align with the law. He added that his organization has identified certain legal weaknesses based on cases reported by the public. He welcomed the introduction of laws and encouraged authorities to continue following legal procedures in future judicial and legislative processes.

Due to the rising number of serious crimes such as murder and rape in areas controlled by the Arakan Army, members of the public have called for stronger and more effective action.

The Arakan Army has introduced laws in areas under its control that allow for penalties ranging from long term imprisonment to the death penalty for crimes including murder, rape, and drug related offences.