Nasaka (Burma border security force) have detained two Rohingyas accused of being involved in human trafficking since Jan.10, according to a local businessman who didn’t want his name used.
“They were arrested over allegations that they (helped) send Rohingyas to Malaysia by sea.”
According to villagers, they are innocent. The accused, Master Reziwan, 30, and Holu, 25, have been confined to their homes after state authorities restricted the movement for many Rohingyas living in Maungdaw. Due to their confinement, they haven’t been able to work.
A Nasaka officer from Area- 8 demanded 700,000 Kyat (US $815.19) for their release. When the men couldn’t pay the bribe they were tortured, according to an inside source.
Nasaka have been exploiting the June sectarian violence that broke out in Arakan state to arrest Rohingyas on trumped up charges. Most are released if they can pay the exorbitant bribes. This is making life for Muslims living in northern Arakan state even harder where thousands are already suffering from food shortages. They can’t work because their movements are restricted, and regularly face arbitrary arrest and extortion at the hands of state authorities.
