by Hafizur Rahman
July 26, 2026 | Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar
A five-year-old Rohingya child reportedly remains in captivity after he and a 21-year-old madrasa student were allegedly kidnapped in separate incidents involving residents of Camp 11 in Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar.
The child, identified as Rahamat Ali, son of Muhammad Junaid, went missing on the morning of July 22 after leaving his family’s shelter in Block E, Majhi Section E-04, to play near a road, according to his family.
His family said the alleged kidnappers subsequently contacted them, demanded Tk 500,000 for his release and sent videos of the child while making threats. Rahamat had not been released as of July 26.
The second victim, Hafez Ayass, 21, son of Jafor Alom, was reportedly abducted on the evening of July 22 while returning to Camp 11 from Bhalukali after attending his madrasa.
According to his family, Ayass was released on July 26 after Tk 400,000 was reportedly paid to the kidnappers. Rohingya Khobor could not independently verify the alleged ransom payment.
The families said the kidnappers had initially demanded Tk 500,000 for each victim and threatened to kill them if the money was not paid.
Residents said the demands had placed severe pressure on families already struggling to afford food and other basic necessities. They expressed particular concern for Rahamat and appealed for his immediate and unharmed release.
“Why target poor families who cannot even afford their basic food?” residents asked.
Noor Kobir, the Majhi of Sub-Block E-04, has reportedly been informed about the incidents.
Community members have urged anyone with information about Rahamat’s whereabouts to contact his family or local community representatives to help secure his safe return.
