Women’s Security and Dignity under Interim Governance and Judicial Systems in Arakan

English | Myanmar

Introduction

(a) Main Focus

This study examines incidents of rape, attempted rape, killings, and threats against women and girls in the ULA/AA controlled areas, with particular attention to the rule of law, accountability, and judicial responses to such incidents.

(b) Geographic Scope

Areas under control of the ULA/AA

(c) Study Period

From September 2024 to August 2026

Background and Context

Following the resurgence of armed conflict in Arakan/Rakhine State in November 2023, significant changes have taken place in the security, governance, and social conditions across the state alongside the expansion of the Arakan Army’s (AA) territorial control. In areas under AA control, governance mechanisms related to security and the rule of law have been established. At the same time, reports of rape and sexual violence against women and children, including cases in which victims were killed after being raped, have raised growing concerns about the safety of women and their access to justice.

While perpetrators in some of these cases have reportedly been arrested, investigated, prosecuted, and sentenced to imprisonment or the maximum available penalties, other cases have raised concerns over perpetrators remaining at large, prolonged proceedings without a verdict, suspects being released on bail, and questions regarding the transparency and effectiveness of judicial processes. These circumstances have further heightened concerns about access to justice for survivors and their families, as well as the safety and protection of women and children.

This study provides an overview of reported cases of rape and related crimes that occurred between 2024 and 2026 in areas of Rakhine State under AA control. It examines the patterns of these incidents, their impacts on survivors, and the status of measures taken against perpetrators, including arrests, legal action, judicial proceedings, and sentencing. The study compiles and presents information based on data and reports obtained from local media outlets.

Summary of Findings

September 2024

Chin woman allegedly gang-raped in Sami town; suspected perpetrator remains at large

On 24 September 2024, a local Chin woman was reportedly gang-raped by a group of unidentified men near an AA camp in Sami town, Paletwa Township. According to local residents, the woman was beaten until she lost consciousness and was subsequently abandoned near a stream.

A 24-year-old man identified as Ko Kyaw Tun Lin was reportedly accused of being one of the perpetrators and remained at large. The AA reportedly issued an arrest warrant for him. Details of the warrant were disclosed on social media on 21 April 2025 by a person close to the AA. However, as the alleged perpetrator had not been effectively apprehended or brought to justice, local residents reportedly expressed concerns and criticism regarding the rule of law.

April 2025

Two AA soldiers allegedly rape woman in AA-controlled Paletwa Township

On 5 April 2025, in Seim Zin Wa Village, Paletwa Township, Chin State, which is under AA control, two AA soldiers reportedly raped a Khumi woman and subsequently attempted to kill her. She reportedly survived after a family member arrived at the scene. The two soldiers reportedly confessed to the offence and were subsequently sentenced to death.

12-year-old girl in Maungdaw Township allegedly raped by Stepfather for Several Months

In Chee Yar Tan Village, southern Maungdaw Township, a 12-year-old girl was reportedly sexually abused by her 40-year-old stepfather over several months, beginning in November 2024. The alleged perpetrator reportedly threatened the girl and her mother in an attempt to prevent the abuse from being disclosed. Following a complaint from local residents, the AA reportedly arrested the alleged perpetrator on 27 April 2025. Local residents ... Read More

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