By: Camp Correspondent
Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar | December 29, 2024
A series of recent fires in the Rohingya refugee camps, including a massive blaze in Camp 1 West and smaller incidents across other camps, has raised serious concerns about intentional acts of arson. These incidents have left hundreds homeless, destroyed critical infrastructure, and claimed innocent lives, further deepening the challenges faced by the already vulnerable Rohingya community.
The Camp 1 West Inferno
On December 24, 2024, a devastating fire broke out in Camp 1 West, Balukhali, at 12:25 PM, lasting over an hour and leaving a trail of destruction:
- Shelters Destroyed: 669 shelters burned, with an additional 114 demolished to prevent the fire’s spread.
- Infrastructure Damage: 5 masjids, 21 learning centers, 3 NGO offices, 84 latrines, and 60 bathing cubicles were destroyed, alongside water tanks and other essential facilities.
- Casualties: Two lives were lost, including a 61-year-old man and a 7-year-old boy, while 19 others sustained injuries.
Residents reported that the fire originated in Block F and spread rapidly, leaving families scrambling for safety. Public suspicions point toward intentional acts, potentially linked to armed groups seeking to destabilize the community and manipulate their movements.
Fires Across Other Camps
In the days following the Camp 1 West blaze, smaller fires and attempts were reported:
- Camp 4: A fire broke out on December 25, destroying two shelters in Block D-6.
- Camp 5: On December 26, a fire near Block B-01 was quickly contained by residents.
- Camp 2: Multiple attempts were made on December 27–28, but public vigilance prevented major damage.
- Camp 19: A fire broke out in Block B7 on December 27 but was extinguished before spreading.
Public Alarm and Theories
Eyewitness accounts and community leaders suggest that these incidents may be part of a larger strategy by armed groups like the RSO. Allegedly, these groups aim to create instability, discourage integration with the host country, and push refugees back toward Myanmar.
One survivor from Camp 1 West recounted the tragedy:
“Burhan Uddin, a 7-year-old boy, was trapped inside his shelter when the fire engulfed it. His mother, who had gone to collect water, returned to find their home in flames. She could not save him.”
Another resident expressed fear over the growing insecurity:
“We came here for safety, but now we live in fear—whether from armed conflicts, fires, or other threats. This constant instability is affecting the resilience of our community.”
Impact on the Community
The fires have not only displaced hundreds of families but also disrupted essential services like education, sanitation, and water supply. Community leaders and NGOs are calling for urgent international support to rebuild and restore these facilities.
Calls for Action
Authorities and humanitarian organizations are urging increased security measures, community awareness, and international intervention to prevent further incidents. Advocacy groups stress the importance of addressing the root causes of these fires to protect the vulnerable Rohingya population.
“This crisis underscores the need for coordinated action to ensure the safety and dignity of refugees,” said a community leader. “We cannot allow these repeated tragedies to go unanswered.”
