By: Camp Correspondent
Teknaf, Bangladesh | May 2, 2025
Four Rohingya fishermen from Jadimura Camp (No. 27) in Teknaf were reportedly abducted at gunpoint by members of the Arakan Army (AA) on Thursday morning while fishing on the Naf River, near the Bangladesh–Myanmar border.
The incident occurred near Lal Dwip, adjacent to the Damdamia area in Teknaf Upazila, a sensitive border zone frequently traversed by refugees and fishermen. The victims were on a traditional drum raft when armed AA fighters confronted them and forcibly took them across the river.
The abducted individuals have been identified as:
- Arafat Ullah (21)
- Anis Ullah (22)
- Jaber (14)
- Anwar Sadeq (27)
All four were residents of Jadimura Rohingya Camp, and their families say they relied on fishing to support themselves amid restricted livelihood opportunities inside the camp.
“They were abducted at gunpoint while fishing,” confirmed Mohammad Noor, a majhi (camp leader) from Jadimura. “We’ve informed the authorities, but so far we have no update.”
Local law enforcement agencies have reportedly been alerted, though no official statement has been issued by the Bangladesh government or border security forces regarding the abduction.
The Naf River, which marks the border between Bangladesh and Myanmar, has become increasingly volatile amid growing instability and conflict in Arakan (Rakhine State). The AA, which now controls large portions of northern Rakhine, has been accused of abductions, extortion, and cross-border threats—many targeting vulnerable Rohingya refugees.
This latest incident has triggered widespread fear among Rohingya camp residents, especially among those who depend on river-based livelihoods.
“We fled Myanmar to escape this kind of violence. Now even in Bangladesh, we’re not safe,” said a fellow fisherman. “If they’re not returned soon, no one will dare go near the river again.”
Community leaders are urging urgent diplomatic intervention and stronger border monitoring to prevent further cross-border aggression and to ensure the safe return of the abducted men.
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