Myanmar: Rohingya boat drowning shows no let-up in Rakhine state desperation
| Publisher | Amnesty International |
| Publication Date | 9 October 2017 |
| Cite as | Amnesty International, Myanmar: Rohingya boat drowning shows no let-up in Rakhine state desperation, 9 October 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59dc84764.html [accessed 18 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
Reacting to the news that a boat has capsized in the Naf river separating Bangladesh and Myanmar today, killing at least 12 people including children, James Gomez, Amnesty International's Director of Southeast Asia and the Pacific, said:
"Today's drowning and tragic loss of life is yet more evidence of the desperate situation still prevailing in Rakhine state. While the Myanmar military has engaged in a campaign of violence, there is mounting evidence that Rohingya women, men and children are now also fleeing the very real threat of starvation.
"The Myanmar authorities are actively blocking aid groups from reaching affected areas in northern Rakhine State, where people are on the brink of survival. These restrictions show a callous disregard for human life and must end immediately."
