by Hafizur Rahman
A Rohingya refugee who was kidnapped earlier this month has been rescued safely following information shared by Rohingya community members with authorities in the Kutupalong area of Cox’s Bazar, according to local sources.
The victim was identified as Moji Ullah, 52, a recent arrival from Arakan State in Myanmar. He had been living in a rented house near Balukhali Camp, outside the camp fence, while being officially registered under a joint assistance card issued by the UNHCR in Camp 16 of Shofiullah Khata.
Kidnapping and ransom demand
According to residents, Moji Ullah was abducted on 23 January while leaving his rented house. The kidnappers reportedly took him through the Akis Paar area of Kutupalong and held him in a local house outside the camp fence.
Sources said the kidnappers later demanded a ransom of 600,000 Bangladeshi taka for his release.
Two days after the incident, Rohingya refugees inside the camp became aware of the kidnapping. Residents said community members immediately shared information with authorities and helped identify the location where Moji Ullah was being held.
Rescue operation
Based on the information provided, authorities carried out a rescue operation with local support. Moji Ullah was freed from captivity, and several suspects were arrested during the operation, according to local sources.
No official details were released about the identities of those arrested or possible charges at the time of reporting.
Security concerns remain
Moji Ullah is now reported to be safe. However, the incident has renewed concerns among Rohingya refugees about security, particularly for those living outside the camp fence in rented housing.
Community members said Rohingya living in such areas face increased risks of crime and exploitation. Residents are calling for stronger protection measures and quicker responses to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As of the latest update, authorities had not issued a public statement on the case.
