The ongoing conflict in Myanmar’s Rakhine State has escalated, with the Arakan Army, a prominent rebel group, reportedly taking control of Maungdaw town. Myanmar’s media reports indicate that nearly the entire 290-kilometer stretch of the Myanmar-Bangladesh border is now under the Arakan Army’s control.
Arakan Army’s Advance and Its Implications
U Khine Thu Kha, a spokesperson for the Arakan Army, confirmed news media that they have successfully captured the junta’s western regional command headquarters and are actively fighting for control over the rest of Rakhine State. In a significant move, the Arakan Army has imposed an indefinite ban on river traffic on the Myanmar side of the Naf River, a key border area.
Bangladesh responded swiftly to the developments. The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has intensified patrols, while local authorities have issued warnings to residents near the border, urging them to remain cautious.
Rising Concerns Over Rohingya Repatriation
Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) commented on the situation, saying, “Since the Arakan Army has taken control of areas across the border, we are maintaining strict vigilance to prevent illegal crossings.”
The conflict, which has been ongoing for over eight months, is raising concerns about its impact on Bangladesh. Security analysts warn that the situation could complicate the already stalled Rohingya repatriation process and potentially lead to a new wave of refugees entering Bangladesh.
Retired Major Emdadul Islam, a security analyst, told journalists, “This makes the issue of Rohingya repatriation far more challenging and complex for Bangladesh.”
Intensified Fighting in Myanmar
The Arakan Army has reportedly captured key locations, including Maungdaw, Buthidaung, and Paletwa. According to reliable sources, the group has taken over Myanmar’s western regional battalion headquarters and numerous border outposts.
A recent statement from the Arakan Army confirmed their capture of the Myanmar military’s Border Guard Police Battalion 5 near Maungdaw after months of intense fighting. They also claimed control of over 30 military camps in Rakhine’s Ann region, successfully countering airstrikes and ground assaults by the junta.
Although the Arakan Army’s advances are evident, Myanmar’s military has yet to issue an official response. However, reports suggest that Brigadier General Thurin Tun, a high-ranking junta officer and commander of the 15th Operations Command in Rakhine, has been captured.
Restrictions on Naf River Traffic
Following its territorial gains, the Arakan Army has suspended all river traffic on the Myanmar side of the Naf River, citing military and public safety concerns. The group claims to have overpowered armed members of the junta and allied groups, including the RSO (Rohingya Solidarity Organization), ARSA (Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army), and ARA (Arakan Rohingya Army).
Strengthened Border Security in Bangladesh
In response, Bangladeshi authorities have heightened security measures. A local journalist reported, “Since news of the Arakan Army’s control emerged, heightened vigilance is evident in Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar, and other border areas.”
Authorities have issued warnings via loudspeakers, instructing residents to avoid crossing the border. The BGB has also increased its presence to prevent unauthorized movements.
Teknaf UNO Sheikh Ehsan Uddin outlined new restrictions for river traffic on the Naf River. While small boats are allowed to operate cautiously on the Bangladeshi side, larger vessels such as trawlers are prohibited. “We are ensuring no boats cross into Myanmar’s territory, and strict monitoring is in place,” he stated.
Additionally, patrols around vulnerable areas and islands within Bangladesh’s territorial waters have been intensified to maintain security and stability along the border.
Bangladesh’s Challenges Ahead
As the Arakan Army consolidates its hold over the Rakhine State, Bangladesh faces heightened security concerns and the potential for prolonged delays in Rohingya repatriation. The situation underscores the need for vigilance and strategic measures to address the challenges posed by the evolving conflict.
