By: Hafizur Rahman
Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh – July 27, 2025
A Rohingya family that had recently returned to Maungdaw, Rakhine State under a voluntary repatriation program, has once again fled to Bangladesh—this time after reportedly facing torture, threats, and extortion by the Arakan Army (AA).
The family—Mohammed Zubair (42), his wife Noor Alom Tefura (38), sons Zahidur Rahman (13), Mohammed Rohan (4), and daughter Romiya Begum (7)—arrived in Bangladesh on Thursday, July 24, after crossing the Naf River.
According to Md Zubair, a cousin of the returnee and a resident of Camp 24 in Ukhiya, the family had originally fled Myanmar nine months ago following escalating threats from the AA in Maungdaw. “Zubair had to close his small family-run business because of mounting pressure and fear,” said the cousin. “He registered with UNHCR and lived in Camp 12, hoping to eventually return when things improved.”
In early July 2025, the family made the difficult decision to return to Maungdaw, believing the situation had stabilized. But within days of their arrival, their hopes were shattered.
“Shortly after they returned, Arakan Army members raided their home,” said the cousin. “Zubair was away at the time, so they tortured other family members and demanded 50 lakh kyats. They threatened to arrest or kill him if he didn’t comply. So he fled again—with his entire family.”
The Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner (RRRC), Mohammed Mizanur Rahman, confirmed the family’s return and the alleged abuse they endured. “Yes, I’ve heard about this case. They came back after facing torture and extortion by the Arakan Army,” he told.
A Grim Warning for Repatriation Hopes
This case has reignited concerns over the viability and safety of voluntary repatriation programs for Rohingya refugees currently residing in Bangladesh. While international and regional actors have often discussed returns as a potential solution, ground realities in Rakhine tell a different story.
Human rights monitors have repeatedly warned that Rohingya returnees risk facing persecution, arbitrary detention, extortion, and even enforced disappearance—particularly in areas under AA control, where there is little oversight and no legal protection for stateless populations.
“We wanted to believe we could return home,” Zubair reportedly told camp volunteers after arriving. “But home is not home anymore. It’s just another trap.”
The family is now seeking re-registration with humanitarian agencies in Cox’s Bazar. Their case joins a growing list of returnees-turned-refugees once again—underscoring the dangerous cycle of displacement, return, and renewed flight that continues to define Rohingya life under repression.
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