A violent clash erupted between two groups in the Rohingya refugee camps of Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar, yesterday, resulting in five people being shot, including a local resident. The incident took place in camps 14 and 15, where gunfire continued throughout the day, leaving at least 10 individuals injured.

Amir Jafar, commander of APBn-8 (additional DIG), confirmed that five individuals—Mohammad Belal (39), Omar Faruk (30), Mohammad Yunus (25), Abdullah (18), and Hamida (50)—were shot during the clash. The injured are currently receiving treatment at the MSF Hospital in Kutupalong.

Though the perpetrators have not been officially identified, multiple sources suggest that the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) has been behind the violence. Since August 5, ARSA has been attempting to reorganize its forces, frequently clashing with the Rohingya Solidarity Organization (RSO) for control over the camps. The recent clashes saw both groups using heavy weapons, causing widespread panic among the refugee population and local residents.

Witnesses reported that the fighting started early in the morning and continued into the afternoon, leaving many Rohingya terrified to leave their shelters. M Gafur Uddin, chairman of the Palangkhali Union Parishad, expressed deep concern over the escalating violence, stating that many locals are now staying indoors to avoid the crossfire. Authorities have been notified, but fear and instability continue to grip the region as ARSA’s aggressive attempts to assert dominance disrupt daily life in the camps.

The ongoing power struggle between ARSA and RSO threatens the fragile stability in Cox's Bazar, with ARSA’s increasing use of violence drawing severe criticism. Many in the region are calling for immediate intervention to curb the rise of armed groups within the camps, urging authorities to take stronger measures to protect both Rohingya refugees and the local population.

BOB Post