by Hafizur Rahman
Cox’s Bazar, October 3, 2025:
The Bangladesh Coast Guard, working jointly with the Navy, rescued 39 Rohingya men, women, and children from human traffickers in the remote hill areas of Baharchhara Union under Teknaf early Friday morning.
Rescue Operation in Baharchhara
According to Coast Guard officials, the victims included 18 women, 9 children, and 12 men. They had been held captive by traffickers who planned to smuggle them by sea to Malaysia and other Southeast Asian countries.
During the operation, security forces arrested two suspected traffickers. Deputy Commander Siam-ul-Haq confirmed the arrests while briefing reporters.
“Based on intelligence, we discovered that the traffickers had been keeping the Rohingya near Kachapia Government Primary School in Baharchhara. They were preparing to send them abroad through maritime routes,” Haq said.
Support and Legal Measures
The Coast Guard stated that all rescued individuals are receiving assistance through official procedures. Legal action is being taken against the arrested traffickers, and authorities have pledged to strengthen anti-trafficking and anti-smuggling operations in the coastal belt.
Between September 18 and October 2, joint operations by the Coast Guard and Navy have already rescued 134 people from similar trafficking attempts, officials confirmed.
Ongoing Exploitation Risks
Human trafficking remains one of the most persistent threats facing Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar and surrounding areas. With limited livelihood options, many families fall victim to brokers and traffickers who exploit their desperation by offering false promises of safety and jobs abroad.
