Ataullah Abu Ammar Jununi, the long-controversial leader of the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), has finally been arrested by Bangladesh’s security forces. His capture has brought a sense of relief among the Rohingya community and residents, who have long endured the fear and violence associated with ARSA’s activities.
Born in Pakistan, Trained by the Taliban
Though Ataullah was born in Pakistan, he spent most of his childhood in Saudi Arabia. There, he allegedly established connections with Taliban-linked groups and received military training. Reports suggest that during his time in Saudi Arabia, he was influenced by certain Rohingya families who later supported his infiltration into Myanmar’s Rakhine State.
From Al-Yaqin to ARSA
Once inside Myanmar, Ataullah founded a militant group initially known as Al-Yaqin, which later evolved into ARSA. In its early days, the group intimidated and targeted religious leaders, educators, and civil society members. ARSA’s militants, often seen wielding heavy weaponry, forcibly recruited young Rohingya men into their ranks. Over time, the group expanded significantly, launching attacks on Myanmar’s security checkpoints.
Suspicions of Ties with Myanmar’s Military
In 2017, just before ARSA’s planned assault on Myanmar police outposts, questions arose about why the country’s military failed to neutralize the threat preemptively. Some speculated that Ataullah may have been secretly collaborating with Myanmar’s armed forces. The attack led to a brutal military crackdown against the Rohingya, triggering the mass exodus of over 700,000 refugees into Bangladesh—a number that has now surpassed 1.2 million.
Accusations in the Murder of Rohingya Leader Mohib Ullah
Ataullah has been implicated in the assassination of Master Mohib Ullah, the most prominent Rohingya leader who once met former U.S. President Donald Trump and played a crucial role in Rohingya repatriation advocacy. Beyond Mohib Ullah’s killing, ARSA has also been accused of targeting other Rohingya human rights activists and community leaders.
Drug Trafficking, Kidnapping, and Abuse Allegations
For years, ARSA has been linked to narcotics smuggling, kidnappings, extortion, and crimes against women. The group has used intimidation tactics to maintain control over Rohingya refugee camps, spreading fear and violence.
Murder of a Bangladeshi Intelligence Official
Most recently, Ataullah and his associates were accused of orchestrating the killing of a high-ranking Bangladeshi intelligence officer. This incident prompted Bangladesh’s security forces to intensify their crackdown, ultimately leading to Ataullah’s arrest.
Relief After the Arrest
Following Ataullah’s capture, a sense of security has returned to both the Rohingya and local Bangladeshi communities. Many now hope for an end to the prolonged cycle of violence and fear.
A close relative of Mohib Ullah expressed hope that the Bangladesh government would ensure justice by holding all those responsible for his assassination accountable.
One of Mohib Ullah’s former colleagues, speaking anonymously, stated, “Jununi personally threatened Mohib Ullah. He saw him as a major obstacle and ultimately ordered his execution.”
Another victim, Mohammad Amin from Camp 12, recounted how ARSA abducted him and demanded a ransom of Tk300,000 for his release. Even after securing his freedom, he still bears the scars of the torture he endured.
“Ataullah sold out the Rohingya people. His arrest brings us hope that Bangladesh will deliver the justice he deserves,” Amin said.
Meanwhile, the Bangladesh government has reaffirmed that no criminal will be above the law.
By Abdur Rashid Manik
Photo: Collected
