Recent arrivals of Rohingya refugees fleeing violence in Myanmar’s northern Arakan State have further strained resources at the already overcrowded refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar. Families are grappling with severe shortages of food and shelter.

One such family, led by Mohammad Saber, escaped brutality by the Arakan Army (AA) in Maungdaw Township, arriving at Camp No. 26 on August 5. Saber’s family is now taking refuge with a relative, Jamir Ahmad, who had himself fled to Bangladesh in 2017. Jamir’s family of seven is now sharing their makeshift shelter, a small tarpaulin tent, with Saber’s family, bringing the total number of occupants to 18.

“We cannot support them with the monthly aid from UN agencies,” said Jamir Ahmad. “They fled the AA’s attacks, and we have to protect them, but it’s becoming difficult.” He explained that their only source of survival is the food provided by UN agencies, as working outside the camps is prohibited.

Kamal Hussain, Chairman of the Representative Committee of Burmese Nationalities Who Have Been Forcefully Displaced (FDMN-RC), accused the Arakan Army of committing atrocities, including the killing of women, rapes, and burning of homes. He also pointed out that the Myanmar military is similarly driving the Rohingya out of their homeland. “Around 50,000 Rohingya refugees have entered Bangladesh in recent months, with many arriving after attacks on August 4,” said Kamal.

Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner (RRRC) Mohammad Mizan Rahman reiterated Bangladesh’s official stance against further illegal entry but acknowledged the reality of increasing arrivals due to ongoing instability in Myanmar. Rahman estimated that between 8,000 and 10,000 new refugees had entered Bangladesh since early August.

UNHCR Communications Officer Shariat Min Nojman stated that while the border with Myanmar remains officially closed, the situation is under close monitoring by Bangladesh Border Guard authorities. “We urge authorities to provide assistance to civilians fleeing the conflict in Myanmar,” Nojman added.

BOB Post