Nasaka (Burma’s border security force) have been exploiting the sectarian violence that erupted in Arakan state last June and October to extort money from Rohingya villagers, according to a local leader who didn’t want their name used for security concerns.
“The violence between Rakhine and Rohingya communities occurred nine months ago. Since then many Rohingya people were killed, arrested and jailed under allegations (of participating in the violence). Authorities are still arresting innocent Rohingya villagers in order to extract money under the guise of following orders and maintaining the law.”
Just last week, Nasaka personnel, from camp No. 14 (Area-6), arrested Khaled, 22; son of Mostaque Ahmed and Saley Ahmed, 32; son of Sultan, in Shwe Zaar village, Maungdaw Township. The men were accused of participating in the June 8 violence. But they were given the option to buy their way out of jail by paying one million Kyat each. A local leader said both men are still in jail because they couldn’t pay the exorbitant bribe.
The day before this incident, Mohamed Yunus, 42; son of Raja Meah, from Shwe Zaar south village was arrested in his shop in the morning by the Nasaka from camp No. 14 (Area -6). Mohamed Yunus was charged with organizing the community against the government. He was set free after paying 100,000 Kyat, according to a relative.
Hakim Ali, the Chairman of Mosque Council in Nwaron Daung (Konrawdail) in Maungdaw Township, was arrested soldiers on Feb. 20 for opening the gate of mosque. Following the sectarian violence many mosques were ordered to close by state authorities. Hakim Ali was released after paying a 150,000 Kyat bribe.
“The Rohingya community has become an earning source for the Nasaka,” one local youth said on condition of anonymity.
