A confidential intelligence report has warned that Bangladesh is facing a growing national security threat due to escalating violence along the Bangladesh–Myanmar border and the involvement of Bangladeshi youths in the conflict in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. The report describes the situation as “high risk” for Bangladesh’s internal security, border management, and humanitarian stability.
According to the report, hundreds of Bangladeshi hill youths have crossed into Myanmar to fight alongside the Arakan Army in its ongoing war against the Myanmar military, known as the Tatmadaw. After completing training, many of them are reportedly returning to Bangladesh with modern weapons and combat experience. Security analysts fear these war-returned youths could later join militias, extremist networks, or organized crime groups, posing a severe threat to law and order. Bangladeshi news poratal Dhakapost.com has published a report on this regard.
The report also highlights the increasing use of modern warfare technology by the Arakan Army, including drones. On January 6, the group allegedly carried out a drone attack on a Myanmar military position in Sittwe Township, injuring several soldiers. Analysts say the use of drones signals that the Arakan Army is evolving from a local guerrilla force into a technologically advanced rebel army, creating new security challenges for Bangladesh’s border areas.
Intelligence sources further warned that the conflict is spilling over into Bangladesh, particularly in Cox’s Bazar and Teknaf. In recent weeks, multiple shootings and abductions have taken place inside Rohingya camps, along with growing clashes between rival armed Rohingya groups and the Arakan Army. These incidents have intensified fear and instability among refugees and local residents.
The report also reveals that drug trafficking—especially yaba smuggling from Myanmar into Bangladesh—has become a major source of funding for the Arakan Army’s war economy. In exchange for drugs, essential supplies are allegedly being smuggled from Bangladesh into Myanmar. Experts describe this as a “classic war economy,” where narcotics finance armed conflict.
Security experts warned that if the flow of drug money and weapons is not stopped, the Cox’s Bazar–Teknaf region could turn into a long-term crime hotspot. They stressed that Bangladesh now faces threats not only on land but also from the air due to cross-border drone surveillance and attacks.
The intelligence agency has made several recommendations, including compiling a full list of Bangladeshis who fought for the Arakan Army, deploying anti-drone technology along the border, strengthening joint patrols by the army, BGB and Coast Guard, enhancing financial surveillance to disrupt drug networks, and improving security inside Rohingya camps through CCTV and community policing.
Analysts also warned of a possible new influx of Rohingya refugees if fighting in Rakhine intensifies further. They urged the government to adopt a balanced approach that combines strict security measures with diplomatic efforts, international pressure, and humanitarian preparedness.
