By: Camp Correspondent
May 8, 2025 | Kurigram, Bangladesh
At least 44 individuals, including 36 suspected Rohingya refugees, were detained early Wednesday while attempting to enter Bangladesh from India through two border points in Kurigram district, raising fresh concerns about the worsening plight of Rohingya stranded across South Asia.
According to the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and local law enforcement, the detentions occurred in Roumari and Bhawalkuri, two remote areas along the northern border.
Multiple Families Detained Near Bhawalkuri
In Bhawalkuri, Bhurungamari upazila, 14 individuals—including eight women and six men—were apprehended after being spotted nearly three kilometers inside Bangladeshi territory. Officials say they appeared to be from three separate families, and initial assessments suggest all are likely Rohingya.
“We’re verifying their identities and how they crossed over,” said Matiur Rahman, Assistant Director of BGB Battalion-22, who noted that some may have been pushed back by Indian authorities.
30 Others Held in Roumari, Including 8 Bangladeshis
Earlier that morning, 30 more individuals were detained in Roumari upazila, according to Lutfor Rahman, Officer-in-Charge of Roumari Police Station. Among them, eight were identified as Bangladeshi citizens from Sylhet and Jashore, while 22 are believed to be Rohingya refugees.
Locals in both areas alerted BGB forces after noticing unfamiliar groups roaming along the border.
“They looked tired, confused, and were clearly trying to avoid being seen,” said one eyewitness in Roumari.
Rohingya Refugees Caught Between Borders
The incident sheds light on the growing trend of cross-border movement involving Rohingya who had earlier taken shelter in India but now face increased policing, lack of protection, and deportation threats.
Many Rohingya refugees living in India report facing identity checks, detention, and legal uncertainty, forcing some to attempt re-entry into Bangladesh in search of safety or reconnection with family in the camps.
“We are being chased everywhere—first from Myanmar, now India. Where do we go?” a detainee reportedly told authorities.
Authorities Await Confirmation
As of Thursday morning, the identities of all 44 detainees remain under verification. Officials stated that further action—including possible relocation to Rohingya camps or repatriation—will depend on the outcome of interrogations and confirmation of refugee status.
Rights groups continue to call for regional coordination and a humane approach to the growing number of stateless Rohingya trapped across South Asian borders.
“These are not criminals. They are survivors of genocide and persecution,” said a community elder in Cox’s Bazar. “The world must recognize that until safe repatriation is possible, the Rohingya need regional protection—not more fences and arrests.”
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