“In Arakan state, it’s like we are living in a big jail. We can’t move freely from one place to place so we are struggling to feed our families,” said an anonymous trader.

Since sectarian violence broke out between Muslims and Buddhist in June and October of last year, state authorities have been controlling their movement. Restrictive curfews have resulted in many being permanently detained in their homes or temporary camps.

Unemployed Muslims are struggling to put food on the table in Thami Hla, Sango Daung, Koi Chang villages and other areas in Rathedaung Township, according to the trader.

Farmers fearful of arbitrary arrests are not working their fields during the winter season. They also weren’t able to grow rice during last year’s rainy season due to the violence. Furthermore, locals claim that Muslims in Rathedaung Township aren’t getting support from UNHCR or other INGOs.