The Arakan Army (AA) has issued an official announcement on May 22 prohibiting young people in Rakhine State from leaving for other regions or abroad, declaring that they must serve in the military instead. The announcement, released in the Rakhine language, comes as intense fighting continues in the Arakan-controlled areas, targeting residents who are attempting to flee their homes. The directive specifically outlines mandatory military service requirements and travel restrictions for the local population.
According to the announcement, all women aged 18 to 25 and men aged 18 to 45 must serve in the military under the National Defense Emergency Provision (NDEP). This mandatory service requirement has reportedly led to many young people attempting to escape from their communities. The AA’s health department has stated that travel permissions will only be granted to severe medical cases that cannot be treated locally and patients whose lives are at immediate risk. These restrictions will remain in place until the end of the current emergency period caused by ongoing conflicts.
The AA has warned that anyone found helping people leave Rakhine State, whether by land or sea routes in exchange for money, will face legal consequences under existing laws. The announcement also prohibits basic commodity traders, cattle traders, and cattle transporters from carrying additional passengers or engaging in paid transportation services. The AA explained that these restrictions are intended to protect civilians from various dangers, including landmines planted by the military council during urban warfare, forced recruitment by the military council, human trafficking, and being caught in crossfire. The organization has stated that these measures will remain in effect until they officially announce the end of the emergency period, as they continue their limited offensive operations with the goal of bringing the entire Arakan region under the control of the Arakan people.
