by Hafizur Rahman
At least 622 Rohingyas living outside officially designated refugee camps were detained in Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar, and sent back to their respective camps during a joint security operation on February 8, 2026, authorities said. The operation was carried out ahead of the upcoming national parliamentary election, citing law and order concerns.
According to officials, the operation began Sunday morning in Balukhali and nearby areas of Ukhiya and was led by the Bangladesh Army with support from other security agencies. Authorities said the Rohingyas were residing outside registered camps, which is not permitted under current government regulations.
An army source said those identified were detained and later returned to their assigned camps.
“About 622 Rohingyas living outside the camps were identified, detained, and returned to ensure compliance with camp regulations,” the source said.
Rohingyas Describe Being Returned
Several Rohingyas who were detained said they had gone outside the camps in search of work.
“We went outside the camp for work. Now we have been sent back,” said Nur Kamal, a Rohingya resident. “The authorities told us to stay inside the camp.”
Another detainee, Abdul Hakim, also known as Bulu, said they were informed that staying outside the camps was against the rules.
“We were outside the camp, which is not allowed. The administration explained the matter and sent us back,” he said.
Authorities Cite Security Concerns
Ukhiya Police Station Officer in Charge Nur Ahmad said Rohingyas living outside camps could create security risks, which is why joint forces regularly carry out such operations.
“That is why joint forces conduct regular drives,” he said. “On Sunday, around 622 Rohingyas were returned to the camps.”
Officials said similar operations were recently conducted in other areas, including Dohazari in Chattogram, where Rohingyas living outside camps were also detained and sent back.
Legal Action Against House Owners
In a separate operation in Palangkhali, Ukhiya, law enforcement agencies carried out joint drives using mobile courts. Authorities said house owners who illegally rented homes or land to Rohingyas were fined or sentenced to short jail terms.
Authorities said eviction drives and legal actions against those violating camp related restrictions will continue in the coming days.
Residents said the operations have added to uncertainty among Rohingya families who depend on informal work outside the camps to survive, while authorities maintain the measures are necessary for security and enforcement of regulations.
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