Thousands of Rohingya awaiting to cross Myanmar border into Bangladesh
The ongoing conflict in Myanmar's Rakhine state has intensified, leaving thousands of Rohingya men, women, and children in fear of eviction from their homes. With the Arakan Army seizing control of Maungdaw township, residents of five nearby villages are on edge, many contemplating crossing the Naf River into Bangladesh to escape the turmoil.
Reports from Rohingya leaders in Bangladesh indicate that more than 37,000 Rohingya have been displaced from villages such as Sudhapara, Ukilpara, Sikderpara, Fayezipara, and Nurullahpara near Maungdaw. Their homes have reportedly been taken over by members of the armed group. The displaced are now clustered in precarious conditions, uncertain of their future.
Border sources reveal that the Arakan Army has secured control over a 270-kilometer stretch of territory along the Bangladesh-Myanmar border. This includes Maungdaw township, where they overpowered the Border Guard Police's 5th frontier battalion on December 8. This escalation has further destabilized the region, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
Mohammad Jubayer, president of the Arakan Rohingya Society for Peace and Human Rights (ARSPH), shared with media outlets that the Arakan Army has forcibly gathered around 37,000 Rohingya in the Perangpru area. Allegedly, these individuals are permitted to leave for destinations like Bangladesh, Malaysia, and Indonesia in exchange for payments. However, those unable to pay are barred from crossing into Bangladesh, trapping them in dire circumstances.
'The conflict between the Rohingya and the Arakan Army has a long history,' Jubayer remarked. 'Even when we lived in Rakhine, the Arakan Army and junta forces collaborated to oppress the Rohingya community.'
As the crisis deepens, the plight of the Rohingya remains a pressing concern, highlighting the need for urgent international intervention and support to address their safety and humanitarian needs.
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