Rohingya land used for new market project in western Myanmar
Displaced Rohingya families say farmland seized without compensation as concerns grow over future property rights in conflict-hit region
YANGON, Myanmar (MNTV) — Rohingya residents from western Myanmar say land that once belonged to displaced families is being used to build a new market in an area now controlled by armed groups, raising fresh concerns over property rights and prospects for future returns.
According to independent Rohingya media outlet Rohingya Khobor, local residents from Nanyarkone village in Myanmar’s Buthidaung Township say the market is nearing completion on farmland previously owned by Rohingya families who fled violence and displacement in recent years.
Residents said the land was taken without compensation after control of the area shifted during fighting between Myanmar’s military junta and the Arakan Army, an ethnic armed group that has expanded control across large parts of western Myanmar’s Rakhine state.
Community members say many Rohingya families who once owned farmland in the area remain displaced and have been unable to return to their homes since conflict intensified.
Local residents also alleged that authorities collected advance payments from Rohingya residents seeking to secure space inside the new market despite ongoing concerns over ownership disputes.
According to villagers, applicants were reportedly required to pay around 5 million kyats in advance to reserve future shop spaces before construction was completed.
Residents said many Rohingya families paid the money hoping small businesses could provide income opportunities in a region where employment and economic activity remain severely limited.
One resident told local media that the payment was not considered the full cost of a shop but rather an advance fee required to secure a place in the market.
Residents further alleged that since expanding territorial control across several townships in western Myanmar, the Arakan Army has taken control of land, homes and other assets previously owned by Rohingya families.
Property ownership remains one of the most contentious issues facing Rohingya communities displaced by years of conflict, military operations and repeated waves of violence, with many families uncertain whether they will ever be able to reclaim homes and farmland left behind.
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