Twenty Two Rohingya Detained in Satkania as Election Nears, Community Concerns Grow

by Hafizur Rahman

Satkania, Chattogram, Bangladesh | November 30, 2025

Authorities in Satkania Upazila have detained twenty two Rohingya in two separate nighttime operations, raising concerns among local residents as Bangladesh approaches its national election. Officials said the detainees had recently travelled from the Ukhiya refugee camps and were found working in brick kilns in the area.

The first group of ten people was detained in Sadaha Union, while another twelve were held in Keochia. Residents in the area said unfamiliar workers had been seen around the brick kilns for nearly two weeks. One resident of Sadaha said the men appeared about fifteen days ago and had been living quietly near the kilns where seasonal workers often gather before dawn.

Satkania Upazila Nirbahi Officer Khondoker Mahmudul Hasan said the joint operation was carried out by the Upazila administration, Army personnel and Ansar. He said ten people were detained in Sadaha and twelve in Keochia, and that all of them identified themselves as Rohingya who had come from camps in Ukhiya.

He said the group will be handed over to Ukhiya Police through Satkania Police Station.

Earlier on November 15, eight Rohingya had been detained in Satkania municipality. Residents said that incident also caused unease, with shopkeepers closing early and discussions spreading among rickshaw pullers and small traders about what it might mean for the area.

The UNO said many Rohingya arrive as seasonal labourers, especially for brick kiln work. He said intelligence reports warn that tensions may rise as the election approaches, prompting authorities to increase vigilance. A meeting with brick kiln owners is expected soon to review hiring practices and monitoring measures.

Local people said they feel conflicted. Brick kilns depend on manual labour, yet the tense political atmosphere has made residents wary. Some fear that movement from the camps into surrounding areas could trigger rumours or security concerns during the election period.

Army personnel participated in the Keochia operation, while Ansar members assisted in Sadaha. The joint team continued its work late into the night, moving through narrow village roads lit only by small shops and the glow of burning kiln fires.