A human rights organization, Fortify Rights, is calling on the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate potential war crimes committed by the Arakan Army (AA) in Myanmar. This request comes after unsettling videos emerged online. These videos appear to show AA soldiers killing two captured individuals, raising serious concerns about their actions.
The disturbing footage, which surfaced between late December and January, displays members of the AA using knives to execute two men near a pit. Fortify Rights has verified the authenticity of these videos, which clearly depict the graphic violence. According to the organization, the men were restrained and unable to defend themselves before they were killed. Consequently, this has created worries that the AA may have violated international law and committed war crimes.
The lack of any legal process and the brutal nature of the executions are particularly troubling. Therefore, Fortify Rights believes it is vital for the ICC to open an investigation. “The ICC should open an investigation into the situation in Myanmar, including the alleged war crimes by the Arakan Army,” stated Matthew Smith, the CEO of Fortify Rights. He further emphasized that this new evidence makes it even more crucial to pursue accountability for the atrocities happening in Myanmar.
This push for international involvement highlights the need for an independent investigation into the events in Rakhine State. Importantly, the ICC’s intervention could help bring justice for the victims of these crimes. Moreover, it would send a clear message that such acts of violence are unacceptable under international law.