Thousands Flee After New Communal Violence Hits Mrauk- U

Thousands Flee After New Communal Violence Hits Mrauk- U
by -
Narinjara

Arakan State, Burma: Tens of thousands of villagers have fled their homes after the recent sectarian violence that started on Oct.23, in Mrauk-U and Minbya Townships in Arakan State.

Mrauk-U1Villagers who fled to Mrauk-U for shelter are believed to be from Rwahaungtaw, Kyauktwinkone, Maungtarkone, Pipinkone, Nankya, Laungkrattaungmaw and Rhaukponkyaun villages.

“Arakanese villagers who are living near Muslim villages have fled to the city.  Now there are hundreds of new arrivals,” said U Kyaw Tun Aung, a retired archaeologist from downtown Mrauk-U.

The Muslim villagers have fled to Prein Village, in Mrauk-U Township, which is under military control, he said.

The latest violence has killed at least 64 people and wounded 92 others, according to Arakan State Spokesman U Win Myint.