By: Hafizur Rahman
Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh – July 24, 2025
A 60-year-old Rohingya man named Peten Ali, a resident of Block B-1 in Camp 2W, was violently attacked by members of the notorious Shukkur Group on the night of July 23, sparking fresh fears among camp residents over growing insecurity and unchecked criminal activity.
According to eyewitnesses, the group entered Camp 2W from a nearby registered camp area and began looting in and around Ambagan Bazar and Block B-1 around 9 PM. Their primary targets appeared to be mobile phones, but when their attempts failed, they turned violent.
Peten Ali, who was walking back from work selling betel leaves—a job he does daily to support his family—was brutally beaten and suffered deep lacerations during the attack. Locals say he was in the wrong place at the wrong time, and the attackers struck him without provocation after failing to rob others.
“He was not carrying a mobile phone. He was just coming home from work,” said one resident. “They beat him savagely. His whole body was bloodied.”
Peten was rushed to GK Hospital in Camp 2W, where he is currently receiving treatment. His condition remains critical. His father’s name is Sultan. The area’s local Majhi, Ruhul Am, has been informed of the incident.
The same night, two other individuals were also reportedly beaten during the attempted looting spree, though details about their identities and condition remain unclear.
Camp residents have expressed growing alarm at the increasing number of violent crimes linked to armed groups operating within and across different camp sectors. Several said they no longer feel safe moving between blocks after dark.
“This is becoming normal,” one elderly resident told Rohingya Khobor. “If the authorities and camp leadership don’t take action now, more people will be hurt—or worse.”
The Shukkur Group, previously implicated in extortion and armed robbery, has long been feared in the camps. Community members are urging the Armed Police Battalion (APBn) and humanitarian protection teams to increase patrols and respond decisively.
