Bangladesh News Tensions At Bangladesh-Myanmar Border

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Two mortar shells from Myanmar side were fired across the border today (August 28, 2022) at Tumbru area under Bandarban's Naikhyangchhari upazila creating panic among locals.

Police said that the incident took place in the area between border pillars number of 34 and 35 along Tumbru border around 2:30pm.

Confirming the matter, Md Sohag Rana, officer-in-charge of Ghumdhum Police Investigation Centre, said the area under BGB's jurisdiction, adding that police are observing the situation.

The shells landed near Uttar Para mosque in Ghumdhum union along Tumbru border but did not explode, reports our Cox's Bazar correspondent quoting local Union Parishad Chairman Jahangir Aziz Chowdhury.

"I came to know this from locals and have conveyed the matter to the local unit of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB). They have beefed up vigilance," Jahangir said.

"Two mortar shells from Myanmar were fired about half-a-kilometre from the zero line (No Man's Land) to Bangladesh side. One of the shells landed next to Uttar Para Jame Mosque along Tumbru border in Ward No 2 under Ghumdhum inion, and the other landed around 200m from that mosque," Superintndent of Police in Bandarban Tariqul Islam told The Daily Star.

The two mortar shells were most likely not targeted towards Bangladesh side but somehow landed on this side of the border during firing by an insurgent group in Myanmar with their Border Guard Force (BGP), the SP also said.

No one was injured in the incident, he added.

It was not possible to contact with BGB's Cox's Bazar 34 Battalion personnel in this regard despite several attempts over phone.


Bangladesh will lodge its strong protest with Myanmar so that nothing such happens inside Bangladesh as the country witnessed two mortal shells from Myanmar inside Bangladesh territory this afternoon (August 28, 2022).

"We usually protest amid such incidents. Few days ago, we also received similar reports. We will again strongly protest it with them (Myanmar)," said Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

He said it will first be investigated whether the fall of unexploded mortar shells on the Bangladesh border was an accident or intentional.

Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) stepped up its vigilance along Bangladesh-Myanmar border in Bandarban area after two Myanmar mortal shells landed in an area near Tambru under Naikkhongchhari in Bandarban this afternoon.

Locals panicked seeing the mortar shells which remained unexploded.

 

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A helicopter of the Myanmar Army on Tuesday reportedly crossed the Bangladesh border and fired multiple shells on the hills at Ghumdhum union in Bandarban's Naikhongchari upazila.

Ghumdhum Union Parishad Chairman Md Jahangir Aziz Chawdhury said the helicopter was seen flying inside Bangladesh from 11 am to 2 pm, crossing the Baishfari border at Ghumdhum.

"The helicopter of Myanmar Army was seen roaming in the airspace of Bangladesh at this time," he said, quoting locals living near the border area.

"At that time, there was heavy shelling. Some of which fell on the hills adjacent to Ghumdhum Union Parishad," he added.

BGB Headquarters Director (Operation) Lieutenant Colonel Faizur Rahman said, "Such a news has been received. The information is being verified now. Details will be provided later."

According to people living near the border area, there has been an ongoing brawl between the Arakan Army, an ethnic armed organisation based in Rakhine State, and the Myanmar Army across the border for over two weeks.

Earlier on Monday, Bangladesh summoned Myanmar's ambassador to Dhaka, Aung Kyaw Moe, to lodge a protest against shelling of two mortars that landed in its territory on 28 August.

"We have asked them to make sure that such an incident is not repeated," foreign secretary Masud Bin Momen said.

Two heavy mortar shells, reportedly fired from Myanmar, landed next to a local mosque on the Bangladesh border in Tumbru of Ghumdhum union in Naikhongchari, Bandarban, on 28 August, causing severe panic among locals.

Later, the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) diffused the unexploded shells.

 

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The government has ordered the Border Guard of Bangladesh (BGB) to remain alert at the highest level in the Bangladesh-Myanmar border to prevent any possible influx of the Myanmar citizens as fierce fighting is going on in the bordering areas of Rakhine State.

The government has also planned to inform the diplomatic community of the evolving situation across the border.

"This time, we have some information, our agencies are better prepared. The BGB has been directed to remain on highest alert so that not a single Myanmar citizen can enter Bangladesh," State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam told reporters at his ministry today (September 1, 2022).

On August 28, two mortar shells from Myanmar landed on Tumbru border of Ghumdhum union in Bandarban's Naikhyongchari.

Two days later, Myanmar forces allegedly fired several shots that hit different hilly areas of Ghumdhum union, though none was hurt, said villagers.

Also, a Myanmar helicopter intruded around 300 to 400 yards into Bangladeshi airspace near the Bangladesh-Myanmar border several times near Baishfari border between 11:00am and 2:00pm.

These took place as fighting between the Myanmar junta forces and rebel group Arakan Army have been taking place since early August. There was, however, no violation of airspace by Myanmar, said Shahriar Alam.

Foreign ministry has already summoned the Myanmar Ambassador to Bangladesh Aung Kyaw Moe to protest against shelling of two mortars.

"We understand the internal situation in Myanmar is worsening. We said it should not impact Bangladesh."

He said many fear that the Rohingyas in Rakhine State may flee to Bangladesh again, but the state minister said any influx like that of 2016 and 2017 is unlikely as Bangladesh could not or did not want to resist for humanitarian ground.

Also, there are no Rohingyas living in Buthidaung and Rathedaung areas as they fled in 2016 and 2017.

Shahriar Alam said those who supported rebel groups had taken shelter in Bangladesh but as a responsible country the government arrested them and returned them to Myanmar.

In the past, he said, Myanmar showed intention of taking back Rohingyas only when there was international pressure. In recent times, Bangladesh engaged with Myanmar virtually twice and that the discussion has progressed.

"We are working on verification of the Rohingya list. Myanmar again expressed its interest to hold a meeting with us, possibly in person. The date has not been fixed yet," he said.

 

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At least four Myanmar fighter aircraft reportedly crossed into Bangladesh's air space over Naikhongchhari upazila in Bandarban Saturday morning.

Making the claim, Bandarban Superintendent of Police (SP) Tariqul Islam, said that the incident occurred around 9:20am in the district's Ghumdhum area today (3 September).

"Eight to 10 rounds were fired from one of the aircraft. Whereas another aircraft shot 30-35 times.

"Two shells fired from one of the Myanmar military aircraft landed some 120m inside Bangladesh near border pillar No 40," the SP added in a statement issued to the media.

Despite repeated attempts, Lieutenant Colonel Md Mehdi Hossain Kabir, commanding officer of BGB 34 Battalion in Cox's Bazar, could not be reached for a comment.

Earlier on 28 August, two heavy mortar shells reportedly fired from Myanmar landed on the Bangladesh border in Tumbru of Bandarban causing severe panic among locals.

According to locals of the Ghumdhum border area, the mortar shells landed next to a local mosque on the border in Tumbru of Naikhongchari, Bandarban around 2:30pm.

They said, there is an ongoing brawl between the Arakan Army, an ethnic armed organisation based in Rakhine State, and the Myanmar Army across the border for over two weeks.

Apparently, there was a fierce fight between the two sides since morning. At noon, helicopters and warplanes of the Myanmar Army were seen circling the border. Later, mortar shells fell on the border of Bangladesh.

Ghumdhum Union Chairman Jahangir Aziz said that he was out of town during the incident. Locals informed him that two mortar shells were fired from Myanmar around 2:30pm, which landed next to a mosque in Tumbru.

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Smoke coming out from a hill inside the Bangladesh border where a Myanmar military shell was dropped on Saturday. Photo: TBS

"It is believed that the Myanmar Army fired the shells. Since the incident, there has been panic among the locals.

"The BGB is commencing heavy patrols in the area," the chairman noted.


A day after, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Myanmar Ambassador to Bangladesh Aung Kyaw Moe and lodged a strong protest against Myanmar's mortar shells inside Bangladesh territory a day earlier.

"We have lodged a strong protest with Myanmar so that such incidents do not happen again.

"We have also strongly condemned the incident," Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

He said a note verbale was handed over to the ambassador.

 

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Bangladesh need to give strong warnings, and protects its airspace. Myanamar have already made millions of rohingya muslims flee to bangladesh.
 

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Myanmar soldiers have been patrolling around the barbed wire fences near the Bangladesh border with heavy weapons and ammunition.

Soldiers from Maynmar could also be seen stationed in bunkers near the border along with heavy weapons on Sunday (4 September).

Fear prevails among the Rohingyas staying at the zero-point, including the local people of the Ghumdhum-Tumbru border as soldiers could be seen patrolling in groups inside Myanmar around the zero-point fence of the Ghumdhum Konarpara border.

"There are about 4,500 Rohingyas living near the zero-point. None of us are at peace. Our days are spent in fear," said a local Rohingya resident.

A bunker could be seen opposite pillar no 33-2 of the border, inside Myanmar; where soldiers with heavy weapons were stationed.

"Myanmar soldiers are firing more. We are afraid. The number of army personnel has also increased on the border. Soldiers are patrolling day and night. Hundreds of soldiers patrolled the barbed wire fence inside Myanmar with weapons in hand on Sunday as well. They have no day or night, they shoot as they please," said another local.

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Locals said that Myanmar soldiers have been shelling and firing from helicopters on the border for quite some time.

On Saturday (3 September) two mortar shells from Maynmar fell inside Bangladesh between border posts 40 and 41 at Ghumdhum union of Naikhongchhari upazila in the morning, according to a press release of the foreign ministry.

The same day, at least four Myanmar fighter aircraft reportedly also crossed into Bangladesh's air space over Naikhongchhari upazila in Bandarban.

On 30 August, a helicopter of the Myanmar Army reportedly crossed the Bangladesh border and fired multiple shells on the hills at Ghumdhum union in Bandarban's Naikhongchari upazila.

The Myanmar Ambassador in Bangladesh U Aung Kyaw Moe was asked to visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday (4 September) to meet the Director General of Myanmar Wing Mia Mainul Kabir. During the meeting, the Ambassador was also told that such activities are of grave threat to the safety and security of the peace-loving people of Bangladesh, violation of border agreement between Bangladesh and Myanmar and contrary to the good neighbourly relationship.

Ambassador U Aung Kyaw Moe was also urged to ensure that no trespassing of the internally displaced Myanmar Residents takes place from Rakhine.


Bangladesh need to give strong warnings, and protects its airspace.

We're good at protesting not protecting.
 

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Myanmar soldiers have been patrolling around the barbed wire fences near the Bangladesh border with heavy weapons and ammunition.

Soldiers from Maynmar could also be seen stationed in bunkers near the border along with heavy weapons on Sunday (4 September).

Fear prevails among the Rohingyas staying at the zero-point, including the local people of the Ghumdhum-Tumbru border as soldiers could be seen patrolling in groups inside Myanmar around the zero-point fence of the Ghumdhum Konarpara border.

"There are about 4,500 Rohingyas living near the zero-point. None of us are at peace. Our days are spent in fear," said a local Rohingya resident.

A bunker could be seen opposite pillar no 33-2 of the border, inside Myanmar; where soldiers with heavy weapons were stationed.

"Myanmar soldiers are firing more. We are afraid. The number of army personnel has also increased on the border. Soldiers are patrolling day and night. Hundreds of soldiers patrolled the barbed wire fence inside Myanmar with weapons in hand on Sunday as well. They have no day or night, they shoot as they please," said another local.

received_472839798039506.jpeg


Locals said that Myanmar soldiers have been shelling and firing from helicopters on the border for quite some time.

On Saturday (3 September) two mortar shells from Maynmar fell inside Bangladesh between border posts 40 and 41 at Ghumdhum union of Naikhongchhari upazila in the morning, according to a press release of the foreign ministry.

The same day, at least four Myanmar fighter aircraft reportedly also crossed into Bangladesh's air space over Naikhongchhari upazila in Bandarban.

On 30 August, a helicopter of the Myanmar Army reportedly crossed the Bangladesh border and fired multiple shells on the hills at Ghumdhum union in Bandarban's Naikhongchari upazila.

The Myanmar Ambassador in Bangladesh U Aung Kyaw Moe was asked to visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday (4 September) to meet the Director General of Myanmar Wing Mia Mainul Kabir. During the meeting, the Ambassador was also told that such activities are of grave threat to the safety and security of the peace-loving people of Bangladesh, violation of border agreement between Bangladesh and Myanmar and contrary to the good neighbourly relationship.

Ambassador U Aung Kyaw Moe was also urged to ensure that no trespassing of the internally displaced Myanmar Residents takes place from Rakhine.




We're good at protesting not protecting.
Bangladehs needs to build up its capabilities, and especially in its land/ air forces. Myanamar is not that strong millitarily, and they have alot of russian weapons. Turkey would perhaps be the most suitable partner to both train, and sell you drones, missiles, air defence systems, as well as mlrs systems. Who is your allies?
 

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Six mortar shells fired from Myanmar exploded inside Bangladesh on the Ghumdum border in Bandarban on Friday, leaving one Rohingya dead and a number of injured.

Dil Mohammad, a local Rohingya leader, said intense gunshots and mortar shell explosions had been heard from the Myanmar side since Friday evening. Around 8pm, four mortar shells exploded in a Rohingya camp and two other shells in a nearby area on the Ghumdum border in Naikkhangchhari upazila.

A Rohingya died and at least six were injured. The injured were sent to Cox's Bazar hospital, said a Rohingya leader Mohammad Arif. The dead could not be identified immediately.

Ghumdum police's SI Shohag Rana said, "We do not have any information on the incident yet."

Cox's Bazar BGB 34 Battalion commander Mehedi Hossain did not answer his phone.

Earlier, a Bangladeshi youth was injured after a land mine exploded inside Myanmar territory along the Naikhongchhari border area in Bandarban on Friday.

Athwaing Tangchangya, 22, from Tumbru headman para of Ghumdum Union Parishad was injured near pillar 25 and 300 metre inside Myanmar border, said Union Parishad Chairman Jahangir Aziz.

Locals said Tangchangya went near the border area to bring his cow, which might have triggered the explosion.

Tangchangya lost his left leg in the explosion. He was first admitted to Kutupalong MSF Hospital and then shifted to Cox's Bazar Sadar Hospital.

Ghumdhum Union Parishad member Md Anowar Hossain said incidents of landmine explosion in the area take place every year.

The Border Guard Bangladesh stepped up patrols and surveillance after two unexploded mortar shells from Myanmar landed in Bangladesh territory on 28 August.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Myanmar envoy to Bangladesh thrice over the issue.

Dhaka lodged strong protests and expressed deep concern at air and artillery strikes landing inside Bangladeshi territory and violations of the country's air space.

The Myanmar side claimed that its military launched airstrikes after the ethnic Rakhine armed organisation, the Arakan Army, seized a police outpost on the border in Maungdaw Township in northern Rakhine State.

 

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Acting Foreign Secretary Rear Admiral (Retd) Md Khurshed Alam on Sunday said they had a high-level meeting Sunday (18 September) with all concerned and urged the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and Bangladesh Coast Guard to remain on high alert with "reinforcement" if required.

Khurshed Alam, also secretary at Maritime Affairs Unit (MAU) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said Bangladesh is a "responsible and peace-loving" country and they are "observing and tolerating" the situation along the Bangladesh-Myanmar border with much patience.

Talking to reporters at the ministry, he said they are in touch with all the relevant agencies and the government remains alert so that no Myanmar national can enter Bangladesh.

Asked who will take the responsibility of the recent death, the acting foreign secretary said they cannot say exactly who had fired the bullet though Myanmar army is written on the bullet.

He said the Myanmar side was telling that these bullets had been stolen by the Arakan Army and they are using these bullets to create distance between Bangladesh and Myanmar. "In such a situation it is difficult to determine who will take the responsibility."

Khurshed Alam said Bangladesh has asked the Myanmar side to take steps for stopping spillover of Myanmar's internal conflict into Bangladesh.

Earlier in the morning, the MoFA summoned Myanmar Ambassador to Bangladesh Aung Kyaw Moe for the fourth time and lodged a strong protest over the recent incidents along the Bangladesh-Myanmar border.

The ambassador was summoned at the office of Md Najmul Huda, the director-general (South East Asia wing) of Ministry of Foreign Affairs to lodge the protest.

Khurshed Alam said Bangladesh conveyed the Myanmar ambassador that what is happening in Myanmar is their internal issue and the Myanmar side needs to think how they will solve it.

He said Bangladesh strongly conveyed the ambassador to take steps to prevent repetition of such incidents – no death, no further injuries – inside Bangladesh.

The acting foreign secretary said the Myanmar envoy listened to the Bangladesh side with time and assured that he would report to the headquarters.

He said Bangladesh is trying to resolve any problem, including the Rohingya crisis through discussion and peacefully.

The acting foreign secretary hoped that there will be a solution if they (Bangladesh) remain strong.

He said Bangladesh is not demonstrating any weakness, rather it is conveying its message to Myanmar from a very strong position.

Earlier, Dhaka reiterated its "deep concern" over the recent incidents of Myanmar's mortar shelling, indiscriminate aerial firing in the bordering areas, and air space violations.

On Saturday, Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan said the government is trying to resolve the issues with Myanmar peacefully and diplomatically but a complaint will be lodged to the United Nations regarding mortar shelling at the border if necessary.

He said the Bangladesh foreign ministry has warned them (Myanmar) several times but they didn't keep their promise. "We have lodged a strong protest over casualties from Friday's mortar shelling by Myanmar at Tombru border," he added.

"Myanmar's internal conflicts should remain within its border but their forces are crossing the border time and again and injuring Bangladeshi nationals," said Asaduzzaman.

He said Myanmar Border Guard Police (BGP) is continuously being contacted about this issue and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has remained alert to prevent illegal entry of Rohingyas.

On Friday night, a 17-year-old-Rohingya boy named Mohammad Iqbal was killed and five others were injured as a mortar shell fired by the Myanmar army exploded at the Zero Point Rohingya Camp close to the international border in Tombru, Bandarban.

The deceased and injured were all residents of the Zero Point Rohingya Camp, known as the camp that is closest to the Bangladesh-Myanmar border, in No Man's Land.

Four mortar shells landed in succession at the Rohingya camp around 8pm.

Earlier, an indigenous youth named Anganthowai Tanchangya was grievously injured in a landmine explosion along the Bangladesh-Myanmar border in Naikhongchhari upazila of Bandarban on Friday noon.

Locals said it is the Myanmar army that has mined the area. Twelve mortar shells have been fired by the Myanmar army on Bangladesh territory so far.

 

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Bangladesh has sought support from the global community to resolve the crisis along its border with Myanmar which emerged due to the fight between the Myanmar Army and the Arakan Army in Rakhine state. Following this, the United Kingdom has said it would support Bangladesh if it raised the issue in the UN Security Council.

Diplomats from at least 30 countries in Bangladesh were invited to the state guest house Padma to brief them on the border situation on Tuesday.

Diplomatic sources said that the UK had made the proposal in the meeting. Diplomats of Southeast Asian Cooperation Organisation (ASEAN) countries in Dhaka were also informed about the border situation the previous day. Bangladesh is not an ASEAN member while Myanmar is one of the 10 member countries in this group. The Myanmar ambassador in Dhaka did not join the meeting.

While fighting continued between the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army, mortar shells fired from the country landed inside the Bangladesh territory. There have been casualties in Bangladesh territory as well.
The ambassador of Myanmar was summoned to the foreign ministry four times as the people living near the border are in constant panic.

According to diplomatic sources, acting foreign secretary Rear Admiral (retd.) Md. Khurshed Alam informed the diplomats about the border situation on Tuesday. In the meeting to exchange views, lasting more than an hour, Bangladesh sought cooperation of the international community to settle the situation.

Bangladesh mentioned that it will raise the issue in the United Nations for a peaceful resolution of the border situation.

The UK High Commissioner Robert Dickson said that if Bangladesh wanted to raise the matter in the UN Security Council, the UK would support it as a permanent member.

Welcoming the proposal, Bangladesh said no final decision has been made as yet whether Bangladesh would go to the Security Council or not. However, the border situation between Bangladesh and Myanmar will be highlighted in prime minister Sheikh Hasina's speech in the General Assembly debate.

When asked, a Bangladeshi diplomat told Prothom Alo that there were two ways to raise any issue in the UN Security Council. One is to present it in the form of a resolution in the Security Council. There is also an opportunity for general discussion in the Security Council on any issue.

However, in both cases, there is no chance to proceed if any of the five permanent members of the council exercise its veto power.

Several diplomatic sources present at the meeting on Tuesday informed Prothom Alo that one of the western diplomats said there could be new influx of Rohingya people into Bangladesh due to the fight between Arakan Army and Myanmar Army. In this context, it was asked, whether Bangladesh would accept funds if collected on humanitarian grounds.

The foreign diplomats were told that Bangladesh would not give any opportunity of new influx of Rohingya people into its territory. There is a political decision in this regard. As a result, Bangladesh would not take any new humanitarian assistance over the intrusion of any Rohingya.

Later, that top diplomat of the western country, mentioning that Bangladesh talked about relocating its people from Bandarban to a safer place, proposed for humanitarian assistance for the move.

To this, Bangladesh side thanked the diplomat and said that the government has no plan to relocate a large number of people from its territory along the Myanmar border. A very few people could be relocated for a very short term. In this context, the government is not feeling any necessity of taking any humanitarian assistance from outside of the country.

A diplomatic source said, diplomats of two countries asked why Bangladesh is putting emphasis on diplomacy over choosing to show its strength to resolve the border situation.

In response, the Bangladesh side said Bangladesh does not follow the principle of animosity with anyone including neighbouring countries. That’s why Bangladesh is relying on diplomacy to resolve the problem. Other alternatives could be thought of if the diplomacy fails at last.

Then one of the two diplomats asked whether the situation would be in favour of Bangladesh if the country would think of alternative means after failing in diplomacy? The Bangladesh side said Bangladesh will look for a peaceful solution.

Md. Humayun Kabir, Bangladesh’s former ambassador to the US considers the proposal of the UK, one of the pivotal member states of the UNSC, undoubtedly positive.

Speaking to Prothom Alo on Thursday night he said, “We have to take enough preparation before raising the Bangladesh-Myanmar border situation in the UN Security Council. We have to fix what we want to achieve through this. We can get better results if we approach with appropriate preparation. But it won’t bring any result if Bangladesh can’t highlight the issue convincingly.”

 

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At least 20 Rohingya families have fled to Bangladesh in a month period due to ongoing clashes between the Myanmar Army and rebel Arakan Army along the Bangladesh-Myanmar border.

Maung Sawyedollah, a leader of a section of the Rohingya population, told The Business Standard (TBS), "These families have taken refuge in several Rohingya camps including the one in Kutupalong of Ukhia."

In addition, two groups of about 1,000 Rohingyas are waiting for infiltration in the Dhangkhali char and Sahabbazar areas of Rakhine across the Naf river, according to statements given by the freshly arrived Rohingyas.

Arakan Rohingya Society for Peace and Human Rights (ARSPH) Secretary Mohammed Zubair confirmed to TBS that five members of two Rohingya families have taken refuge in the Lambashia Rohingya camp of Ukhia.

"Some of the Rohingya families who entered Bangladesh first took refuge in Kutupalong camp." But they have shifted to different camps after security measures were tightened. However, it is not possible to say exactly how many Rohingyas entered the country so far."

In the first week of September, TBS traced a Rohingya family that had arrived at a refugee camp in Cox's Bazar. The family hails from the Buthidaung town of Rakhine state. Following persecution by the Arakan Army, the family intruded into Teknaf by crossing the Naf River through Maungdaw. It took them 11 days to reach Bangladesh.

Dildar Begum, 22, a member of that family, said, "Apart from the Myanmar army, the Arakan ethnic group's armed forces (AA) are also attacking the Rohingya Muslims. My husband Shahidullah was killed for protesting the attacks. Seeing no other option for survival, I fled into Bangladesh with my three-month-old baby girl."

"Three more families fled Rakhine and came to Bangladesh with us," she added.

When asked about this, Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner Mir Mohammed Mizanur Rahman told TBS, "We have heard about seven-eight Rohingya families entering Bangladesh. Some of these families have also been pushed back. However, I do not have any specific information on the matter."

Rohingya intrusion is taking place from the Zero Line of Border

On 16 September, a Rohingya youth was killed and five others, including women and children, were injured by a mortar shell fired by the Myanmar Army at the zero line of the Tumbru border in Naikhongchari upazila's Ghumdhum union, triggering panic among Rohingyas on the zero line.

The Business Standard has learned that several Rohingyas have taken refuge in the Kutupalong Rohingya camp from zero point after the incident.

About 4,500 Rohingyas fled Myanmar and took shelter at the zero line.

Dil Mohammad, a Rohingya leader who lives on the zero line, claimed that Myanmar has started a new military raid to remove them.

The reason why Rohingyas are trying to enter Bangladesh again

In June of this year, the conflict between the Myanmar Army and the Arakan Army in Myanmar's Rakhine and South Chin turned into an armed war involving heavy weapons and airstrikes. Even the artilleries and mortar shells used by the two forces are coming to the territory of Bangladesh. As a result, the residents of Maungdaw, Rathedaung, and Buthidaung towns in Rakhine State are in a panic.

Abu Wafa, one of the recently displaced Myanmar nationals, claimed the Arakan Army is persecuting the Rohingyas amid the conflict between the two sides.

In a virtual press briefing on 19 September, the United League of Arakan (ULA), the political wing of the Arakan Army, said Bangladesh should recognise the Arakan Army and hold talks about repatriating the Rohingyas.

Security analyst Major (Retd) Emdadul Islam said the Arakan Army's statement on the repatriation of Rohingyas is a geopolitical strategy.

 

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In a breach of diplomatic etiquette, China skipped Bangladesh's discussion over Myanmar's military activities on the border. Dhaka did not take China's non-response as normal. The Ministry of External Affairs says they have "noticed" the matter. On the other hand, experts say that they are not "surprised" by China's stance on Myanmar, reported Bangladesh Live News.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs called the ambassadors and high commissioners of non-ASEAN countries working in Dhaka to inform them about Myanmar's military activities on the border. However, the Chinese ambassador Li Ji Ming did not participate in it. This meeting was held on Tuesday morning at Rashtriya Guest House Padma. Ambassadors of Russia and India were not present but sent representatives. Only China was absent, reported Bangladesh Live News.

In addition to the European Union member countries, representatives of almost all countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, Egypt, South Korea, Turkey, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, and Japan participated in the meeting. Experts see China's absence as a breach of diplomatic etiquette. At the same time, they consider this incident as China's clear support for Myanmar, reported Bangladesh Live News.

An official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who did not wish to be named, told NewsBangla, "Although the heads of missions of almost all countries were called at a very short notice, they or their representatives came." "However, we did not find any representative of China. The ambassador might be busy with important work, but he could send a representative if he wanted. We are a little surprised that it was not sent," he added.


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Maj General ANM Muniruzzaman (retd) is a former army officer, a security analyst and the president of Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS). In an interview with Prothom Alo, he talks about the operations of the Myanmar army along the border, border violations, Myanmar's internal situation, rebellion, the activities of the separationists, the Arakan-centric geopolitical situation, Rohingya problems and the Bangladesh predicament.

Are the occurrences along the Bangladesh-Myanmar border an instigation on the part of Myanmar, or is it a part of their efforts to bring the rebellions in their country under control?

The main group carrying out the insurgent activities within the Rakhine state of Myanmar, is the Arakan Army. In recent times the Arakan Army has consolidated its strength in Rakhine. Influence and support for the Arakan Army has grown among the communities there. They have gained strength both politically and militarily. Given this situation, the Myanmar army, Tatmadaw, has taken up a strong operation against the Arakan Army. Shells have been coming into Bangladesh territory and there have been deaths too. It is not acceptable that they fire shells into the neighbouring country in their operation against their own country's insurgents. But it still does not seem that they are doing this to instigate Bangladesh in any way.

There is a sort of recklessness in the way that Myanmar is dealing with the rebels or insurgents along the border with Bangladesh. They are not bothered whether the border is being violated or not. Are they trying to give Bangladesh some sort of message?

Certain matters must be taken into consideration when carrying out any operation along an international border. The other country's independence and sovereignty is involved and this must be respected. But the manner in which the Myanmar army is carrying out its operations in the Rakhine state, they are not displaying this respect. Neither are they really bothered about international norms. From the manner of their operations it seems that they do not have much regard for Bangladesh's capacity. Perhaps by carrying out these operations in this manner, they are assessing Bangladesh's attitude. Perhaps they want to assess how Bangladesh may react or respond if they carry out operations on a larger scale in the future.

Why has the Arakan Army suddenly become so active in the Rakhine state?

The Arakan Army is the military wing of the United League of Arakan. They began their activities in 2009 in the Kachin state and took training from the Kachin Independent Army there. They then gradually strengthened their independence movement. They set up base at the Paletwa region along the India-Bangladesh border and carried out their operations. Under the leadership of Major General Twan Mrat Naing, this army has increased its capacity in recent times. This force calls for the self-determination of the Rakhine people, their right to live their lives as they want and the establishment of an independent Rakhine state. They are carrying out their armed struggle to this end. As the Arakan Army in recent times has strengthened its political and military position in the Rakhine state, the Myanmar army authorities have launched an all-out attack on them.

The Arakan Army has become quite strong. Who are behind them? Where are they getting their arms and financial support from?

It is still not clear from which country or group the Arakan Army is receiving support and assistance.

International sources say that various active ethnic armed rebels and insurgents in Myanmar have become stronger than before. Areas under their control are expanding. The army is losing hold in several places around the country. Is that how things are?

After the Myanmar army overthrew the Suu Kyi government on 1 February 2021 and took over power, the insurgent groups there stepped up their operations and activities. They are gaining ground in their fight against the army. Kachin Independent Army (KIA) has already managed to capture quite a few Tatmadaw installations. The Karen Union is fighting for the self-determination of the Karen people. Their position in the Karen region is stronger than before. The army has lost its stronghold. Chinland Defence Force (CDF) and Chin National Defence Force (CNDF) have recently reached an understanding with the big organisation Chin National Army there. The various separationist groups are consolidating cooperation among each other in order to oust the Tatmadaw. And the general people, those opposed to military rule, are also getting involved with the various rebel and separationist groups and joining the anti-government struggle. However, the situation hasn't reached a point where it can be said that Tatmadaw has lost control over Myanmar in a major sense.

Other than the ethnic armed forces and rebel groups, Aung San Suu Kyi's party that was ousted by the Myanmar army, has also taken up armed struggle against the government. They have formed a counter National Unity Government. How do you see the prevailing civil war in Myanmar?

We note that the people of Myanmar have mobilised a strong resistance after the Myanmar army took over power by means of the coup and sent the elected leaders including Aung San Suu Kyi to jail. There is bloodshed and battle all over. The army has taken a firm stand to quell these uprisings. A People's Defence Force or PDF has been created to resist the army. They are active all over the country. This can be called the preliminary stages of a civil war. But PDF's success is nothing significant. They have failed to maintain their unity throughout the country. They may have manpower and supporters, but lack in arms and ammunition. So the situation in Myanmar at present is not a full-blown civil war as yet.

Myanmar has been under strict military rule for a long time. It is nothing new there. But would you call the resistance against the army now, after it took over power, unprecedented? Are the people of Myanmar no longer willing to accept army rule?

Army rule is nothing new to the people of Myanmar. While it is true that the people there have long been under military rule, the light of democracy had begun shine after an elected government was established there through a free election. The people after long got the taste of democracy and civic freedom. One thing rapidly took place there during the democratic rule and that was the flourishing of civil society. Communication with the outside world increased. This achievement in such a short time during the democratic government was quite striking. So when the Myanmar army took over power again, the people did not accept it. They were no longer willing to simply accept it as in the past. Despite much loss of lives and property, they have still resisted army rule and are continuing to do so.

With violence and conflict prevailing in Myanmar and its economy facing stiff challenges, what is the future of the country? What impact could there be in the surrounding countries, particularly in Bangladesh?

Myanmar's economic situation is weak and fragile, but it has not collapsed. They are trying to overcome the economic pressure they had faced during Covid. The various sanctions imposed on them at an international level after military rule, has made it hard for them to keep up their economy. But it must be kept in mind that Myanmar is a country replete with resources and have many essential resources with which they can run themselves. The fresh sanctions on Myanmar are nothing new to the country. They have already spent four decades under sanctions in the past and have the experience of how to survive in such circumstances. They are using that to try and tackle the present circumstances. Taking the Ukraine war situation into consideration, the World Bank predicts a 3 per cent growth for Myanmar next year. While it is under pressure somewhat where energy and food is concerned, Myanmar is not facing any major economic threat. The country hasn't collapsed economically and so there is no scope for economic refugees. Nothing like that is likely to happen any time soon.

Our columnist Altaf Parvez has quoted the Arakan Army in one of his columns. The Arakan Army said that if the Rohingyas are to be sent back there, the Arakan Army will first have to be recognised and then they can hold talks. That means the Rohingya repatriation issue has become all the more complex. What do you say?

The Arakan Army has taken a stern stance. They have established their control in many areas there. There are several areas where their administration has been established and they are even collecting taxes. It is under such circumstances that they have made such a statement. This indicates that they want to say that they are not only strong domestically, but are also seeking international recognition now. They want to claim that they are such a power in this region now that no problem can be resolved without them. The question is, what will Bangladesh do in this circumstance? The answer is that there is no scope for Bangladesh to come to an understanding with any such separationist group.

What role is China, Russia, India and such countries playing in Myanmar's present circumstances?

The three countries that you have mentioned as providing support and backing to Myanmar. The stand of these countries hasn't changed even after a democratic government was ousted and replaced by a military rule there. These three countries have major strategic interests in Myanmar's Rakhine state. A deep sea port has been constructed under China's special economic zone in Kyaukpyu. They are setting up an oil refinery there. This port and refinery are important for China's energy security. If the Malacca strait is shut down in the event of a war, China can use this port to keep up its fuel supply. This will ensure the supply of oil, gas, LNG and everything. There will be a direct railway line from here to China's Yunan province.

In the meantime, India has taken initiative to reconstruct and use the Sittwe port which had been damaged during World War II. The Kaladan multimodal highway will lead from here to India's northeastern states. The Kaladan highway is extremely important to India. Russia has economic interests there. They want a specialised economic zone there.

Strategically speaking, the Rakhine state is a very important region. It is an entrance to the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean. One of the six BRI corridors of China will go through this state. As the Rakhine state is very attractive to these three countries, Bangladesh will have to understand these strategic aspects and proceed with this in mind.

Bangladesh has approached its friendly countries for their support regarding the Myanmar issue. Do you think that the policies and strategies adopted by Bangladesh so far have been appropriate?

Bangladesh called the representatives of certain friendly countries and explained the situation to them and asked for their support. This will not yield any tangible results. We displayed our diplomatic weakness when the refugee crisis evolved. Neither ASEAN nor SAARC stood by us. If any pressure is to be applied on Myanmar, this must be done by China, India and Russia. Myanmar must be sent a message through them that what they are doing on the Bangladesh border is not acceptable.

Nothing will be effective other than approaching these three countries. If the situation worsens, we will have to go to the UN Security Council. China and Russia have veto powers there. The bottom line is, we cannot get embroiled in any conflict and we must seek a peace resolution to this crisis through diplomatic means. But we must have the capacity to exert force behind our diplomacy and this must be clearly displayed. If a threat to our national security arises, there will be need for national consensus. If military capacity is added to national consensus, that will function as a deterrent power. If these factors are there, then diplomacy functions effectively.

 

Mehmed Ali

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I am sorry to say but I don't see very bright future for you. Well , I am a Bosnian and our own prospects are almost zero but we know that . The odds have always been stucked against us but I don't get people who at leat have some opportunity then choose to do nothing and if possible do a bit posturing. I don't get how someone buy the weapons to do un work while practically be unprotected. Even your position is a bit ambiguous to me .
 

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The odds have always been stucked against us but I don't get people who at leat have some opportunity then choose to do nothing and if possible do a bit posturing. I don't get how someone buy the weapons to do un work while practically be unprotected. Even your position is a bit ambiguous to me .

It's probably mentioned here; except the violation of our airspace by Myanmar army, the rest of the incidents, the shelling and stray bullets are spillovers from fighting between Myanmar army and AA near the border cause AA is trying to take control of the BoPs in the border.

The govt is unable to do something about that cause Myanmar isn't accepting responsibility for that and blaming AA for it. The rebels often captures Myanmar army weapons and use those against them. So it's hard to figure out who is actually responsible for the shelling and stray bullets.

About the "bit posturing" part for the violation of our airspace by Myanmar army, the govt decided not to react quickly to any provocation and handle the issue diplomatically first. With the ongoing war, economic and energy crisis it's probably better not to do anything to get involved in their civil war unless they directly target us.

Not all the weapons are at UNPKO, so don't know which weapons you're trying to indicate. And it doesn't matter what's our position is on this matter. Anyway yesterday's reports say the situation cooled down a lot, firing stopped/decreased significantly and they took the fight elsewhere from the border after govt put BGB, Coast Guard on high alert.

 

Mehmed Ali

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I am not referring so much about these particular incidents. What I am trying to say here is the facts that you are not well armed at all. It seems too me that you don't have a viable air force nor air defence. It seems that Bangladesh is not willing to sacrifice something for its security. You are surrounded by enemies , maybe it would be better to drop " peace and no harm to anyone policy" , maybe it would be better to get as close as possible, let's say UK.
Both of us know full well that the vultures will keep circling as long as they have absolutely nothing to fear.
 

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What I am trying to say here is the facts that you are not well armed at all. It seems too me that you don't have a viable air force nor air defence.

Modernization process is ongoing since 2013 but not going smoothly for some years because of several internal and external issues. BAF is facing the most trouble because of that. In this current situation it's will face more obstacles.

Who is your allies?

From what we saw and lessons we learned since 2017, it's safe to say that Bangladesh doesn't have any close/proven/effective allies. Most of them want to sell their weapons or look to benefit other way during the turbulent times.
 

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The sound of gunfire from inside the neighbouring country of Myanmar can be heard at the Hoikyong Kanjarpara border of Teknaf upazila in Cox's Bazar, after the recent gunfire heard near the borders of Tumbru in Naikhongchari upazila of Bandarban and Ukhia of the district, scaring people in the border villages.

Since Monday morning, the Kharangaguna and Ulubnia neighbourhoods of Hoikyong were shaken by the sound of heavy weapon and mortar shell fire, Maulana Noor Ahmad Anwari, chairman of Teknaf's Hoikyong Union Parishad, confirmed.

He added that 400 residents of the two villages are spending their days in fear.

Teknaf Upazila Executive Officer (Acting) Erfanul Haque Chowdhury said, "I got to know the news about the firing on the borders through the public representative. The higher authorities concerned have been informed."

People living within 300 metres of the border have been listed. Next actions will be taken in this regard according to the situation, he added.

The ongoing clashes between the Myanmar Border Guard Police (BGP) and the Arakan Army on the Bangladesh-Myanmar border for the past one month have created panic among residents of the Tumbru border in Ghumdhum union of Naikhongchari upazila of Bandarban.

Many have left the area in fear and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has become stricter in the border area.

Commander of Teknaf-2 BGB Battalion, Lt Col Sheikh Khalid Mohammad Iftekhar, said, "We are ready to face any situation. BGB is in a strict position to prevent illegal infiltration and to ensure the safety of Bangladeshi citizens.


Both imports and exports through the Teknaf land port fell significantly over the last one and a half months, according to trade data, as tension escalates at the Myanmar-Bangladesh border.

Through the port, Bangladesh imported 20,500 tonnes of goods in July. The volume fell to 17,318 tonnes in August and 13,580 tonnes in the first 26 days of September. Besides, exports in September came down to 320 tonnes from 400 tonnes in July.

"Seven to eight ships used to come to the port every day from Myanmar. But for the last one and a half months, only three to four ships have been coming to Teknaf," Ramendra Bikash Chakma, traffic inspector of Teknaf land port, told The Business Standard.

He attributed the fall in trade to violent fighting between the Myanmar army and the Arakan army in Myanmar's major trade hub Mongdu.

The heavy fighting along the border caused Myanmar mortar shells to land in Bangladesh territory and a violation of the country's airspace a number of times. The shelling killed a Rohingya youth on the zero-line in mid-September, putting Border Guard Bangladesh in a state of high alert.

From Teknaf land port, ships carry kuchia fish, toys, plastic products, garments, chips, aluminium products, medicines, cosmetics and food products to Myanmar's Mongdu, Akyab and Yangon port.

On the other hand, Bangladesh imports wood, betel nut, ginger, turmeric, chillies, onions, dried fish, onions, grams, lentils, rice, ginger and pickles from the neighbouring country. Vessels from Mongdu, Akyab and Yangon ports bring the items to Teknaf for transport to different districts.

A recent visit to the port by the TBS correspondent revealed a single vessel being loaded to export kuchia fish to Akyab, while most of the workers and port officials were sitting idle.

The workers said normally 20-25 trucks are loaded and unloaded at the port every day. But due to the ongoing armed conflict in Myanmar, only four to five trucks are leaving the port nowadays.

Aminul Islam, security executive officer of United Land Port Teknaf Limited, said timber import from Mongdu has been completely suspended due to the unstable situation. However, shipping to and from Akyab and Yangon is fairly normal.

Not a rainy day for border smugglers

The ongoing conflict across the border seems to have had no impact on the smuggling of yaba pills, gold and other items from Myanmar to Bangladesh, according to locals.

They allege that smugglers are using Rohingya camps on the zero-line as transit points. Often some Rohingyas enter Myanmar at night and bring the items to their shelters. Later, they smuggle those to Bangladesh by evading the border guard patrol.

In Bardarban's Tumbru, a village policeman told The Business Standard on condition of anonymity, "Nearly 90% of the houses in the zero-line camps store yaba, cigarettes and gold for smuggling into Bangladesh."

On 24 September, the Bangladesh Coast Guard seized 13 gold bars by raiding Boroitoli area adjacent to Teknaf land port. Earlier, the border guards seized 90,000 pieces of yaba from Naf river on 21 September and 100,000 pieces from Rajapalong of Ukhiya on 20 September.

According to the Department of Narcotics Control, drugs enter through 15 points of the Bangladesh-Myanmar border. Of them, ten are in Cox's Bazar and five in Bandarban border.

Border Guard Bangladesh 34 Battalion Commander Lt Col Mehedi Hasan said the battalion is not aware of drug smuggling by the zero-line Rohingyas. He said the border guard will look into the matter.

Security analyst Major (Retd) Emdadul Islam said control over border smuggling is one of the major causes of the ongoing conflict between the Myanmar junta and armed rebel groups in the country.

"The armed groups want absolute control of the smuggling. But the military government wouldn't stay away from the business too. Therefore, cross-border smuggling continues even amid the border tensions," he noted.



Bangladesh Coast Guard has increased patrol and surveillance along Naf River and Saint Martin’s area in Teknaf to prevent Rohingya infiltration from Myanmar.

Regular high-speed boats are patrolling day and night from Teknaf to Shahpari Island along with the deployment of round-the-clock patrol ships in the sea.

Lt Commander Khandaker Munif Taqi, media officer of the Coast Guard Headquarters, confirmed the information to Bangla Tribune on Sunday.

He said that the Coast Guard is on alert to prevent infiltrators from taking advantage of Myanmar's internal unrest.

Also, the Coast Guard is on alert with its own intelligence surveillance so that any kind of rumor or false propaganda cannot create any unwanted situation or instability.

 

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