Narinjara, May 5, 2025

The Chin Brotherhood (CB), a coalition of the Arakan Army, calls for the Chin National Front/Chin National Army (CNF/CNA) to accept responsibility and accountability for the death of an Arakan Army (AA) soldier while in custody.

In a statement released by the Chin Brotherhood on May 4, it was reported that a member of AA faced severe torture while in the custody of the CNF/CAN, and the CNF holds responsibility and accountability for the death of an AA soldier during this custody.

The Chin Brotherhood also vehemently denounced the torture and mistreatment by CNF.

The AA soldier was taken prisoner in the fight for Matupi. Subsequently, he passed away due to multiple tortures endured during his capture, stated the report.

The statement expressed sorrow over the passing of AA's soldier from our allied forces who was freed following the prisoner of war exchange.

In June 2024, CNF seized the chance to strike at the CB and its allied Arakan Army (AA) amid the conflict for Matupi against junta troops. Members from both groups (CB and CNF) were arrested during the fighting.

The CB also noted that the seized soldiers were swapped between the CNF and the CB on March 29, 2025.

CNF spokesperson Salai Htet Ni informed the BBC during an interview that the AA member passed away due to health issues and was not subjected to torture.

A Chin political analyst stated that both the CB and AA factions rejected the CNF spokesperson's remarks.

The AA, working alongside the Chin Brotherhood, is engaged in conflict with the Burmese army in Chin State and has seized a minimum of five townships. Out of the five townships, the AA has taken control of Paletwa township, whereas the Chin Brotherhood has seized Matupi, Mindat, Kanpetlet, and Falam.

Tonzan township has been taken by the CNF.