The Ghumdum border point in Naikhongchhari upazila of Bandarban is witnessing a surge in tension as approximately 400 members of the Chakma community attempt to enter Bangladesh amidst escalating conflict between the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army in Myanmar’s Rakhine state.
In addition to the Chakma people, there are reports of Rohingyas gathering in the border area. Mohammed Mizanur Rahman, the Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner (RRRC) in Cox’s Bazar, confirmed the situation on Monday, highlighting the pressing food crisis in the border areas due to the conflict.
“The ongoing fighting between the junta force and the rebel Arakan Army has created a food crisis, making their lives risky. As a result, they are attempting to intrude into Bangladesh to ensure their safety,” stated the RRRC official.
To prevent further influx, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) members have intensified patrolling and security along the border. The RRRC emphasizes the importance of securing the border to prevent the entry of Rohingya or individuals from any other community into Bangladesh.
Simultaneously, the conflict has intensified within Myanmar, with reports of the Myanmar military dropping bombs from helicopters targeting Arakan Army positions since Monday morning. A tragic incident occurred at the Ghumdum border in Bandarban, resulting in two fatalities and a child injured due to a mortar shell allegedly fired by Myanmar.
Authorities have responded by closing five primary schools in the affected areas due to rising tensions from the ongoing conflict. The situation has instilled widespread panic among the local population.
In a separate development, 95 members of Myanmar’s Border Guard Police (BGP) sought shelter in Bangladesh on Sunday amid the intensifying conflict between the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army in Rakhine state. Locals report extensive gunfire, mortar shells, and explosive rocket launcher fire along the border near the Naf River.
As the violence escalates, authorities are implementing precautionary measures to address the growing crisis. The sounds of mortar shells and gunfire continue to echo along the outskirts of Myanmar near the Ghumdum border area, heightening concerns for the safety and well-being of those living in the conflict-ridden region.
