Security has been stepped up along the Maungdaw–Bangladesh frontier in northern Arakan (Rakhine) State, with the Arakan Army (AA) expanding troop deployments and tightening movement controls, according to locals and people familiar with the situation.
Locals reported that border vigilance has increased significantly in recent weeks, as AA authorities seek to stabilize the area and curb the movement of Muslim armed groups operating across the frontier. The measures are largely aimed at preventing infiltration by Muslim armed groups reportedly active near the border regions adjoining Bangladesh.
Under the revised security arrangements, residents are now required to notify and pass through administrative and security checkpoints run by the AA’s political wing, the United League of Arakan (ULA), before traveling for essential needs or emergency medical cases. The AA has also advised civilians to avoid traveling alone or in small groups through remote or forested terrain.
“Before, there were about 10 AA fighters at each security gate, but now we’re seeing more than 20 or even 30. It feels like a positive change. I’m also glad to see many Muslims cooperating peacefully with the AA recently,” a Maungdaw resident said.
Security concerns in the area are also tied to reports of armed activity near the border. According to local accounts, Muslim armed groups have established positions close to the frontier and have periodically crossed into Arakan State to launch attacks, raising tensions along the border.
Alongside land-based operations, the AA has expanded maritime patrols in waters off Arakan State. The Arakan Coast Guard, under the command of the AA, have reportedly detained Bangladeshi fishermen accused of crossing into territorial waters, later transferring them to Bangladeshi authorities.
In an interview with The Diplomat, AA commander-in-chief Major General Twan Mrat Naing described the group’s ongoing operations in border regions, including efforts to address narcotics trafficking and insurgent activity.
“We are offering assistance to remote villages in the region and especially to Mro-inhabited villages. A section among them is involved in drug trafficking. We are receiving reports that some among them have also joined hands with ARSA (Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army). Many have been killed in internecine battles, which is not surprising. Before Maungdaw was liberated, the military and drug barons like Dil Mohammad were very active in drug trafficking. We are now focusing on that region so that there can be better security for the residents,” he said.
He added that the AA hopes to coordinate with Bangladesh to improve border management and facilitate the potential repatriation of displaced Muslim communities. However, he also noted that such cooperation would be difficult without formal recognition of the ULA, while stressing that the AA is prepared for any outcome.
The AA seized full control of Maungdaw Township in December 2024 and has since continued to expand its administrative presence, maintaining security and law enforcement operations across the border region and surrounding areas.
