Teknaf, Dec 08 (V7N)- The ongoing conflict between Myanmar's military and the Arakan Army (AA) in the Maungdaw area of Rakhine State has intensified, causing widespread panic among border residents and raising fears of new waves of infiltration into Bangladesh.

Border Residents Witness Escalating Violence

Residents of Cox's Bazar’s Teknaf municipality, which lies southeast of Maungdaw across the Naf River, report hearing heavy explosions and gunfire since Saturday night. The clashes are a result of the Myanmar junta's efforts to regain control of areas that the insurgent group Arakan Army has seized over years of conflict.

A local resident said:

“The explosions are so loud they make the ground tremble. It feels like the war is right on our doorstep.”

Rohingya Caught in the Crossfire

According to a Rohingya leader living in a Teknaf refugee camp who spoke anonymously to Voice7 News:

“Many Rohingyas are dying in the crossfire. Those trapped in Myanmar have nowhere to go except Bangladesh. If the conflict continues, we fear more Rohingyas will cross into Bangladesh seeking refuge.”

Potential for New Infiltrations

The recent escalation poses a significant challenge for Bangladesh, which already hosts over 1 million Rohingya refugees who fled Myanmar's military crackdown in 2017. Security concerns and humanitarian responsibilities weigh heavily on the region as border authorities brace for potential infiltration.

Bangladesh Authorities on Alert

Bangladeshi border guards (BGB) have increased vigilance along the Naf River to monitor and manage any attempts at infiltration. Officials are coordinating with humanitarian organizations to prepare for a possible influx of refugees.

Background of the Conflict

The Arakan Army, an ethnic armed group seeking greater autonomy for the Rakhine people, has been engaged in fierce clashes with the Myanmar military. The conflict has resulted in widespread casualties, displacement, and devastation, with civilians, including the Rohingya, bearing the brunt of the violence.

Urgent Need for Resolution

The situation underscores the urgent need for international mediation to prevent further escalation and to address the root causes of the Myanmar conflict. For Bangladesh, the crisis highlights the importance of balancing border security with humanitarian obligations in the face of ongoing regional instability.

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