Bangkok, Aug 13: A devastating artillery and drone attack in Myanmar has left up to 200 Rohingya people dead, including children, as they fled violence in Rakhine state last week. The attack occurred on August 5, as civilians attempted to cross the Naf River into Bangladesh.
Witnesses report that the assault targeted Rohingya fleeing from Maungdaw town and surrounding villages. Videos circulating on social media show bodies and personal belongings scattered on the ground. Nay San Lwin, co-founder of the Free Rohingya Coalition, relayed accounts from survivors who described multiple drone strikes and artillery fire. “At least three to four dozen drone bombs were dropped, and we estimate more than 200 killed with around 300 injured,” Lwin said. “There is no one to collect the dead; everyone is fleeing for their lives.”
Survivors confirmed the high death toll. A witness told Reuters that the attack’s aftermath included a chaotic scene with numerous bodies and severely injured individuals. “Some people were still alive but unable to receive help,” the witness recounted. “The situation was desperate, with no aid reaching those who needed it.”
The Arakan Army (AA), an armed group challenging the Myanmar military, and the military itself have each blamed the other for the attack. Activists believe the AA was responsible, citing the group’s recent history of targeting Rohingya civilians. The AA, however, denied involvement, stating that the victims were family members of terrorists who were attempting to leave Myanmar without permission.
The Myanmar military has faced severe international criticism for its ongoing persecution of the Rohingya. It is currently under investigation by The Hague for alleged genocide against the Rohingya in 2016 and 2017. The Rohingya, a Muslim minority, face severe restrictions and denial of basic rights in Myanmar.
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reported treating 50 patients who fled to Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, including 18 children, as of August 10. Many of the injured had suffered from shelling and gunshot wounds. MSF highlighted the dire conditions described by patients, including witnessing bombings and seeing hundreds of dead bodies along the riverbanks.
“The situation in Rakhine state is horrifying,” said an MSF spokesperson. “Many people are separated from their families and fear for the lives of those left behind.”
The attack has intensified the humanitarian crisis for the Rohingya, underscoring the urgent need for international intervention and support for those affected.