By Hafizur Rahman
June 08, 2026
A group of 47 Khumi people fleeing conflict in Myanmar were detained by Bangladesh border authorities after crossing into Bangladesh through the Thanchi border area in Bandarban.
According to local reports, the group came from several villages in Paletwa Township of Chin State. They crossed the border late at night on June 4, hoping to find safety from the ongoing fighting in their area.
The following day, border guards found the group sheltering in several homes in Hwaiko Khumi village under Remakri Union of Thanchi Upazila. Authorities detained all 47 people, including men, women, and 11 children.
Residents familiar with the situation said that many families have been forced to leave their homes because of the armed conflict and growing insecurity in Myanmar’s border regions. Fearing for their lives, the Khumi families decided to seek refuge across the border.
Local people have also expressed concern that more families may attempt to enter Bangladesh if the fighting continues.
Bangladesh authorities are currently checking the identities of those detained and gathering information about their journey. Officials said that after completing the necessary procedures, decisions will be made according to border regulations and international practices.
Further details about the detained individuals have not yet been released. Authorities said they will provide more information as the investigation continues.
In recent years, conflict in Chin State and Rakhine State has forced many people from different ethnic communities, including Khumi, Khami, Bawm, and Rakhine Buddhists, to flee their homes and seek safety in neighboring Bangladesh.
