Maungdaw Township in Myanmar's Rakhine State has come under the control of the Arakan Army, triggering fears of eviction among thousands of Rohingya men, women, and children in five nearby villages. Armed group members have reportedly occupied Rohingya homes and forced villagers into confined areas, creating widespread fear and uncertainty.

Faced with the possibility of eviction, many Rohingya are believed to be considering crossing the Naf River to seek refuge in Bangladesh. However, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and the Coast Guard have intensified patrols along the border to prevent illegal crossings.

According to Rohingya leaders currently living in camps in Bangladesh, over 37,000 Rohingya residents from Sudhapara, Ukilpara, Sikderpara, Fayezipara, and Nurullahpara near Maungdaw have already been displaced. Their homes, they claim, have been seized by members of the Arakan Army.

In a related development, limited vessel movement resumed on the Naf River on Friday afternoon after several days of suspension. Despite this, tourism in Teknaf remains disrupted, with visitors opting to use the BIWTA jetty in Nuniachhara, Cox's Bazar, to reach Saint Martin’s Island. Trade activities through the Teknaf land port have also been temporarily halted due to ongoing tensions.

The situation remains volatile, with international observers expressing concern over the potential humanitarian crisis.

BOB Post