Due to conflict in Myanmar’s Rakhine state and persecution by the armed rebel group Arakan Army, at least 100,000 Rohingya are currently waiting along the Teknaf and Naikhongchhari borders. Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has warned that they may attempt to enter Bangladesh at any moment if given the opportunity.
Salim Ullah, who arrived from Buthidaung in Rakhine state, reported that he lost three family members due to torture by the Arakan Army.
Local UP member Sirajul Mostafa Chowdhury stated, “From 10pm Friday until dawn, gunfire sounds were heard along the Whykong border in Teknaf. This has terrified border residents, including fishermen on the Naf River.”
Commander of BGB Teknaf-2 Battalion Lieutenant Colonel Ashikur Rahman mentioned that, although some individuals attempted to cross the border, they were not allowed entry. Surveillance has been intensified at potential entry points.
Teknaf Upazila Executive Officer Sheikh Ehsan Uddin reported that due to the complex border situation, the Coast Guard and law enforcement agencies are also on high alert.
According to intelligence sources, nearly 200,000 Rohingya have entered Bangladesh over the past year. Currently, at least one hundred thousand are waiting at the border.
As per the Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commission, there are concerns that an additional 50,000 Rohingya may attempt to enter by the end of this year.
Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner Mizanur Rahman stated, “A major risk has emerged at the border. Criminal activities, including drug and arms smuggling, are increasing. Although the army, BGB, and police remain vigilant, the challenges are growing more complex.”
Migration expert Asif Munir believes that Rohingya repatriation is impossible without a change in Myanmar’s policies. He noted, “Refugees from Afghanistan, Palestine, or Ukraine have found shelter in third countries, but the Rohingya have not had that opportunity. As a result, the pressure on Bangladesh continues to grow.”
Amid recent border tensions, BGB detained a member of the Arakan Army along with weapons. Two others were arrested from Naikhongchhari. Police reported that five individuals have been detained so far, three of whom are Myanmar nationals.
In 2017, nearly seven hundred thousand Rohingya sought refuge in Bangladesh due to persecution by the Myanmar army and local residents in Rakhine state. The influx, which began from Maungdaw by crossing the Naf River, has not yet ceased. There are fears that Bangladesh may face a similar crisis once again.
Experts believe that unless the repatriation process becomes effective, a new wave of Rohingya influx is only a matter of time.