The Arakan Army (AA) has alleged that Myanmar military personnel torched a free monastic school, its hostel for students and the dining hall of the monastery compound in Khamaung Seik village, Maungdaw Township, on August 30.

AA spokesman U Khaing Thukha said of the alleged transgression: “Torching free schools is an act of grave human rights violation and is inhuman,” adding that by torching the free school, the regime has destroyed the futures of children in the region.

Witnesses have told DMG that the school building, hostel, kitchen/dining hall, and pantry building were damaged in the fire.

DMG was unable to obtain comment from junta spokesman Major-General Zaw Min Tun and Arakan State Security and Border Affairs Minister Colonel Kyaw Thura regarding the AA’s allegation of arson.

More than 20 children of needy families from Min Khamaung and Khamaung Seik villages are taught at the free school.

“It is a terrorist act to torch free schools,” said former Arakan State lawmaker for Maungdaw Township U Maung Ohn. “It is unacceptable.”

Khamaung Seik village was largely deserted by its residents on August 26, following fighting near their village. The displaced villagers are taking shelter in Maungdaw town and at neighbouring ‘Thone Mile’ village.