65 indigenous Myanmar nationals seek refuge in Bangladesh

At least 65 indigenous Myanmar nationals, distinct from the Rohingya community, sought refuge in Bangladesh this morning, fleeing the ongoing conflict in Myanmar’s Rakhine State.
According to sources at the Refugee, Relief and Repatriation Commission (RRRC), the new arrivals are from various indigenous communities within Myanmar. They reportedly crossed into Bangladesh through the Baishfari border area under Ghumdhum union in Naikhongchhari upazila, Bandarban.
Mohammad Mizanur Rahman, the RRRC commissioner, confirmed that after entering Bangladesh, the group initially took shelter in front of the Hindu Rohingya settlements at Kutupalong camp in Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar.
“Since they are staying outside the designated camp area, we have alerted the district administration and law enforcement agencies to ensure their safety,” Mizanur said.
Acting Upazila Nirbahi Officer and Assistant Commissioner (land) of Ukhiya Jareen Tasnim also confirmed the development, adding that efforts are underway to verify the identities of the individuals.
The refugees, hailing from several villages in Maungdaw township, Rakhine State, recounted harrowing experiences of fleeing their homes due to intense clashes between Myanmar’s junta forces and the Arakan Army. They described how they narrowly escaped heavy bombardments, leaving behind their livelihoods as farmers. They also reported that the Arakan Army was forcibly recruiting youths from their communities to fight against government troops.