The Arakan Rohingya National Alliance (ARNA) strongly condemns the tragic incident in Whykong, Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, on 11 January 2026, in which an innocent 12-year-old Bangladeshi girl was killed by a stray bullet originating from an Arakan Army attack across the border. According to reports, heavy fighting was instigated by the Arakan Army against Rohingya civilians at Totar Dwip during which gunfire crossed into Bangladesh and struck the child as she was playing outside her home. This senseless loss of life is a direct result of the Arakan Army’s reckless violence.
ARNA extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. No family should have to endure such an unspeakable tragedy. We share in the community’s grief and stand in solidarity with the people of Bangladesh in mourning this loss. ARNA also emphasises that the Rohingya community was the target of the Arakan Army’s aggression, and this brutality has now tragically spilt over into Bangladesh. We urge the international community to act swiftly to hold the Arakan Army accountable for this incident and to prevent any further cross-border harm to innocent civilians. ARNA remains committed to advocating for peace and security in the region so that no more Bangladeshi or Rohingya lives are put at risk by such violent attacks.
For further inquiries, please contact:
secretariat@thearna.org
About ARNA:
The Arakan Rohingya National Alliance (ARNA) was established to unify all Rohingya leadership and establish a cohesive policy framework for the community. It serves as an alliance of Rohingyas from within Myanmar, refugee camps, internally displaced persons (IDPs) camps, and the Rohingya diaspora.
Main Objective of ARNA
The primary objective of ARNA is to unify the Rohingya people under one alliance, amplifying their voices, and to achieve their right of self-determination within the Federal Union of Myanmar. This includes advocating for their right to return to their homes, securing justice for atrocities committed against them, and ensuring their political and human rights are recognized and upheld.