Press Release: 160,000 Newly Displaced Rohingya Creates New Humanitarian Crisis – Attacks Ongoing

Media Release from Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK

1st September 2017

160,000 Newly Displaced Rohingya Creates New Humanitarian Crisis – Attacks Ongoing

Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK sources indicate that around 160,000 Rohingya have been displaced by the new military offensive which began on August 25th.The government and military are only assisting displaced Rakhine people. Where Rohingya populations live or have fled to, no humanitarian access is allowed. 

Aid is also being blocked to Rohingya displaced by previous violence and attacks. 

At least 10,000 Rohingya are trapped in Buthidaung and Rathaedaung mountain area without food, water or medicine. Children, the injured and elderly are already dying. 

“For many thousands it’s now a week since they were forced to run from their homes, they don’t have food, water, medicine or shelter,” said Tun Khin President of Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK. “Unless international action is taken to ensure aid access, there is a risk that more people will die from hunger and disease as by direct attacks by the military.”

Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK is shocked by the lack of a strong international response to the new military offensive, given the scale of human rights violations taking place. 

“One week into this major military offensive, the international community has done nothing, despite knowing crimes against humanity are being committed, said Tun Khin.“Our history is one of suffering but even for us we are now witnessing the most horrific situation in our history. We need action from international community, but we aren’t even getting strong statements. No wonder the attacks carry on.”

For more information please contact, Tun Khin +44 7888714866.