09 September 2017•Update: 10 September 2017
By Islamuddin Sajid
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan
Pakistan on Saturday summoned Myanmar’s ambassador to Islamabad to lodge its protest against the persecution of Rohingya Muslims.
Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua called U. Win Myint to convey the concerns of its government and people over the ongoing violence against the Rohingya in Myanmar’s Rakhine state, said a statement issued by the foreign ministry.
Janjua stressed that Myanmar should allow Rohingya Muslims to live and move freely without fear and discrimination.
"Pakistan demands urgent investigation into recent violence against the Rohingya Muslims and holding accountable those involved in these serious crimes," the statement said.
The ambassador assured he will convey these concerns to his government.
Rohingya described by the UN as the world’s most persecuted people, have faced heightened fears of attack since dozens were killed in communal violence in 2012.
Fresh violence erupted in Rakhine state nearly two weeks ago when security forces launched an operation against the Rohingya.
Bangladesh, which already hosted around 400,000 Rohingya refugees, has faced a fresh influx of refugees since the security operation was launched.
According to the UN, 270,000 Rohingya have sought refuge in Bangladesh as of Friday.
Last October, following attacks on border posts in Rakhine’s Maungdaw district, Myanmar security forces launched a five-month crackdown in which, according to Rohingya groups, around 400 people were killed.
The UN documented mass gang rapes, killings -- including those of infants and young children -- brutal beatings and disappearances committed by security personnel.
In a report, UN investigators said the human rights violations constituted crimes against humanity.
