By: Hafizur Rahman, Camp Correspondent
Maungdaw/Teknaf, December 12, 2024
The Arakan Army (AA) has taken full control of Maungdaw Township in Myanmar’s Rakhine State after capturing the final Border Guard Police (BGP) post on December 8. This latest development has heightened risks for the remaining Rohingya population in Rakhine and intensified security measures along Bangladesh’s border.
Approximately 500,000 Rohingyas still reside in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, most living in fear of displacement and violence. Reports suggest growing tensions between the Rohingya community and the AA following its takeover. Concerns are mounting that more Rohingyas may flee Myanmar to escape the worsening situation.
“The Arakan Army has been accused of human rights abuses, particularly targeting Rohingya civilians. We are extremely concerned about what comes next,” said a rights monitor based in the region.
In anticipation of a potential influx of Rohingya refugees, Bangladesh Coast Guard and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have increased surveillance along the 270-kilometer border shared with Myanmar. Special patrols have been deployed along the Naf River, which serves as a natural boundary between the two nations.
“We are working to secure the border and prevent any unauthorized crossings while ensuring safety for both sides,” said a BGB spokesperson.
Immediately after gaining control of Maungdaw, the Arakan Army banned all boat traffic on the Naf River, disrupting life in the region. Passenger and speedboats on the Teknaf-St. Martin route have been suspended, and cargo shipments from Myanmar to Bangladesh through Teknaf land port remain halted.
The ban has resulted in severe food shortages on St. Martin’s Island, as supply boats can no longer operate. “Tourists are using alternate routes from Cox’s Bazar, but the island’s residents are suffering the most,” said Kamal Hossain, a local trader.
The AA has faced widespread allegations of human rights abuses against Rohingyas. In May 2024, nearly 200,000 Rohingyas were reportedly displaced when AA forces burned down most of Buthidaung Township. In August, the group was accused of attacking Rohingya civilians fleeing conflict in Maungdaw.
There are also reports that individuals connected to Myanmar’s military have attempted to escape into Bangladesh, further complicating the situation for authorities.
The situation in northern Rakhine State remains tense as the Arakan Army solidifies control over key areas. For the Rohingya population, already marginalized and displaced, the risks of violence, forced displacement, and human rights violations have only grown.
Bangladesh remains on high alert, monitoring developments closely while bracing for the humanitarian fallout.
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