Ukhia-Teknaf, Dec 14 (V7N)- Rohingya leaders residing in the refugee camps of Ukhia and Teknaf have raised grave concerns over the uncertain prospects of repatriation to Myanmar amidst ongoing conflicts in Rakhine. The Arakan Army's (AA) capture of key cities, villages, and border posts, including Maungdaw, has intensified fears of further atrocities and potential new waves of Rohingya fleeing into Bangladesh.

The Rohingya leaders denounced the Arakan Army, labeling it a terrorist organization devoid of accountability, unlike the Myanmar junta government, which they hold partially accountable for past atrocities. "The Myanmar junta suppressed us in 2017, but the Arakan Army has worsened our plight, looting homes and committing heinous acts against our families," said a Rohingya leader in the Ukhia camp.

Dr. Zubair, President of the Arakan Rohingya Society for Peace and Human Rights at Kutupalong Camp, described the Arakan Army as a persistent oppressor. He highlighted that while the Rohingya sought justice from the Myanmar junta, the latter colluded with insurgents to expel them from their homeland. "Myanmar is our home," Dr. Zubair emphasized, "If our security and civil rights are assured, we will return. How long can we endure life in these cramped camps?"

Md. Tayyab, an advisor to the Rohingya Society for Peace and Human Rights, echoed similar concerns, stressing that the international community must hold the Myanmar junta accountable for past atrocities and find ways to address the unchecked actions of the Arakan Army. "The Arakan Army has no accountability, yet it perpetuates violence and occupation in our villages," he added.

The ongoing power struggle in Rakhine between the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army has reportedly displaced thousands. The Arakan Army has gained control of vital border areas, creating fears of new Rohingya infiltrations into Bangladesh.

Teknaf Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Sheikh Ehsan Uddin confirmed that security measures along the Naf River have been intensified, with the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and Coast Guard bolstering their presence to prevent unauthorized crossings. However, Ukhia Upazila Executive Officer Kamrul Hasan Chowdhury could not be reached for comment.

The Arakan Army's conflict with the Myanmar junta has stretched over ten months, with significant territorial gains along the 270-kilometer border between Bangladesh and Myanmar. The ongoing unrest poses significant challenges to the Rohingya repatriation process and necessitates urgent international intervention.

Rohingya leaders are urging global organizations, including the United Nations, to step in and resolve the crisis, emphasizing that they seek to return to Myanmar with guaranteed security, dignity, and civil rights.

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