By: Hafizur Rahman, Camp Correspondent
Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh – January 15, 2025
A Rohingya family in Cox’s Bazar is living through a nightmare after their 6-year-old son was kidnapped by unknown individuals. The kidnappers sent terrifying photos and a video showing the boy pleading for help while partially buried in the ground.
In the disturbing images, the boy’s hands are tied behind his back, and his legs are shackled with iron chains. The accompanying video shows the frightened child crying, “Ah baba, please send money quickly and save me. They are burying me alive. Say again, send money, baba.”
Initially, the kidnappers demanded a ransom of 700,000 Taka. After desperate pleas from the family, the demand was reduced to 200,000 Taka.
A Family’s Desperate Plea
The boy was abducted on January 14 while on his way to buy snacks. Shortly after, the family received a call from the kidnappers, threatening to kill the child if the ransom was not paid. A local refugee described the family’s plight, saying, “The family is very poor. They have only managed to collect 50,000 Taka and are now begging in mosques to gather the remaining amount.”
The family’s inability to meet the ransom demand has left them in a state of despair as they worry for the safety of their child.
Rising Danger in the Camps
This horrifying case has struck fear into the hearts of many living in the refugee camps. Kidnapping, human trafficking, and extortion have become alarmingly common in recent months. Despite efforts by authorities to curb these crimes, the camps remain unsafe, particularly for children.
Community leaders are calling for urgent action to strengthen security and protect vulnerable residents. “This is not only about one child,” said a local camp leader. “All our children are at risk. We need immediate help to stop this growing danger.”
Police and Community Efforts
The police have launched an investigation into the abduction and are working closely with camp leaders to locate the child. However, the vast and densely populated camps pose significant challenges to their efforts.
Authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward, assuring confidentiality. Meanwhile, local residents are pleading for increased protection and intervention from the government and international organizations to address the rising crime rates in the camps.
The tragic case of this young boy highlights the growing insecurity faced by Rohingya refugees. As the family struggles to save their son, the community’s call for stronger safety measures and justice grows louder. Time is of the essence, and swift action is critical to ensuring the boy’s safe return and preventing similar tragedies in the future.
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