General Twan Mrat Naing Strongly Denies Massacre Allegations in Tan Shauk Khan Village; Invites UN Investigation
Buthidaung Township, Rakhine State — Arakan Army (AA) Commander-in-Chief General Twan Mrat Naing has categorically denied allegations that a mass killing took place in Tan Shauk Khan Village, Buthidaung Township, and has invited a United Nations Special Rapporteur to visit Rakhine State to independently investigate the claims.
According to the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, Mr. Tom Andrews, this invitation was conveyed during his prior communications with AA leadership. The details were included in paragraph 70 of his report submitted to the UN Human Rights Council on October 20, 2025.
“The Special Rapporteur has engaged in multiple discussions with AA Commander-in-Chief General Twan Mrat Naing. Regarding the allegations of a mass killing in Tan Shauk Khan Village, General Naing strongly denied the accusations. He expressed serious concern about the use of unverified or fabricated information aimed at ‘smearing’ the AA’s reputation. He also invited the Special Rapporteur to visit and investigate not only Htan Shauk Khan but any other sites in northern Rakhine where alleged human rights violations were reported,” the report stated.
The Special Rapporteur also noted that he has not yet been able to independently verify the claims related to incidents in Rakhine State, citing limited access, restricted communications, and severe constraints on evidence collection due to ongoing conflict. He further acknowledged that even local networks inside Rakhine have limited information about ground realities and emphasized the need for independent, credible investigations into all reported abuses committed by any parties involved in the conflict.
Recommendations to the Arakan Army
In his report, Mr. Andrews outlined six key recommendations addressed to the Arakan Army:
Publicly affirm the fundamental human rights of all individuals in Rakhine State, including the Muslim community.
Issue clear orders to prevent any human rights violations by AA personnel against Muslim civilians.
Lift restrictions on freedom of movement and livelihood that are inconsistent with international humanitarian and human rights law.
Investigate credible reports of human rights abuses and ensure accountability for any perpetrators within AA ranks.
Cooperate fully with impartial and independent inquiries into human rights violations in Rakhine State.
Engage in dialogue with community leaders, including Rohingya figures in Rakhine and abroad, to address grievances and foster mutual understanding.
ARSA and RSO Implicated in Violence
The report also noted that ARSA (Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army) and RSO (Rohingya Solidarity Organization) have reportedly pledged to continue attacks against the Arakan Army, while committing violent acts against both Rakhine civilians and Muslim communities. It cited information indicating that these armed groups were involved in burning thousands of homes belonging to ethnic Rakhine villagers and in brutal killings and extortion targeting both Buddhist and Muslim residents.
The UN report underscores the complexity of the conflict in northern Rakhine, involving multiple armed actors and competing narratives, while urging all parties—including the AA, ARSA, and RSO—to ensure civilian protection and allow independent monitoring.

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