Paletwa Township, Chin State — The Arakan Army (AA) has reportedly abducted around 20 young people, including an underage student, in what local residents and family members say is part of an ongoing effort to recruit new fighters.
The incident took place on April 24, 2026. Among those taken is 14-year-old Maung Chit Su Aung, also known as Maung Chann Su Aung, a Grade 6 student from Shin Let Wa village. He had been traveling by cargo boat to Mee Za village when AA forces detained him upon arrival at the Mee Za jetty.
Local residents said that AA personnel then seized approximately 20 other youths, both male and female, aged between 14 and 15, from the same boat as well as other boats arriving in the area.
Residents report that such incidents have become more frequent in areas with limited internet and communication access, where underage boys and girls are being targeted and taken for forced recruitment.
Maung Chit Su Aung is the youngest in his family. His two older brothers joined the AA in 2016. One of them was killed in combat, while the other has not been in contact with the family for a long time.
He is also the only person caring for his elderly mother, who is over 60 years old and suffers from epilepsy. Following his abduction, she went to plead with AA members for his release but was reportedly turned away.
According to those present, AA members told her that each household must provide one person for military duty without exception.
“Two of my sons have already joined. Now my youngest son is still underage and he is the one who takes care of me. Please release him,” she pleaded, but her request was not accepted.
With no one left to support or care for her, the elderly woman is now facing a serious and potentially life-threatening situation.
Family members and local residents are calling for urgent attention to the case. They are appealing to relevant authorities, the United Nations, human rights organizations, and the media to intervene and press for the immediate release of the underage individuals who were taken.
