Rohingya Returnees Reportedly Detained by AA Following Deportation by BGB, Raising Humanitarian Concerns in Maungdaw

Reports indicate that sixteen Rohingya residents from Buthidaung Township in Arakan State were allegedly detained by the Arakan Army (AA) after being returned to Myanmar by Bangladesh Border Guard (BGB) personnel. According to local residents, the group which included women, elderly individuals, and nursing infants had fled difficult living conditions in search of safety but were intercepted before they could enter Bangladesh.

Local sources stated that the group attempted to cross the Naf River by boat at approximately 10:00 p.m. on June 6. While trying to enter Bangladesh, they were reportedly arrested by BGB members and later returned to the Myanmar side of the border at around 5:00 a.m. on June 7. The reported handover took place along the Naf River near the area west of Mingala Gyi Village in Maungdaw Township, outside the border fence.

Witnesses said that after being returned, the group attempted to make their way through the border fence toward the village area while heavy rain continued to fall across the region. However, members of the AA’s coastal security force reportedly intercepted them near the riverbank and subsequently transported them to the Pyin Phyu Chaung Wa camp at around 6:00 a.m., where they are said to be currently detained.

The incident has generated significant humanitarian concern due to the vulnerable condition of those involved. The group reportedly included nursing infants, women, and elderly people, some of whom relied on walking sticks for mobility. According to eyewitness accounts, they remained exposed to heavy rainfall for an extended period, leaving many of them cold, exhausted, and physically weakened.

Local residents have expressed growing concern about the health and welfare of the detainees, particularly given the severe weather conditions and the reported lack of adequate shelter. Community members are calling attention to the urgent humanitarian needs of the group and emphasizing the importance of ensuring their safety and well-being.