Ukhiya, Aug 25 (V7N) — A brief protest erupted in the Kutupalong and Madhurchhara Rohingya refugee camps in Ukhiya on Monday as groups of Rohingyas demanded the release of Attaullah, the detained leader of the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA).

Groups of Rohingya refugees staged demonstrations in the Kutupalong and Madhurchhara camps in Cox’s Bazar's Ukhiya upazila, reportedly demanding the immediate release of Attaullah, a prominent and controversial figure within the Rohingya community and the alleged chief of the insurgent group Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA).

The protests followed a small assembly held earlier in the day. Witnesses said that after the gathering, participants quickly dispersed from the area. Although the protest did not last long, it sparked concern among camp authorities and local law enforcement.

Several Rohingyas, speaking anonymously, claimed that Attaullah had been unjustly detained and described him as a "freedom fighter." One participant said, “He was arrested without cause. He is fighting for our rights and should be released immediately.”

Another young Rohingya said he was returning home after the assembly when he heard chants from behind, demanding Attaullah’s release. “It didn’t last long, and most people quickly left the scene,” he added.

Attaullah was reportedly arrested by Bangladesh’s Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) on March 18 of this year. His arrest marked a significant moment, given his alleged role as the head of ARSA, a group linked to both armed resistance in Myanmar’s Rakhine State and violence within the Rohingya camps in Bangladesh.

When asked about the incident, Rohingya community leader (sub-mazi) Bashir Ahmed stated, “I was not present at the scene, but I’ve heard that a small group protested.”

Commander Siraj Amin of the 14th Armed Police Battalion, responsible for camp security, said he was not aware of any such protest but would look into the matter.

ARSA has been accused of internal violence in the refugee camps, including targeted killings and attempts to control camp leadership structures. Despite its declared mission of defending Rohingya rights in Myanmar, Bangladeshi authorities view the group as a serious security concern.

The Bangladesh government continues to monitor the camps closely, with security forces maintaining a strong presence. Intelligence operations have been intensified in recent months following a rise in criminal activities and factional clashes inside the camps.

No official statement has yet been issued regarding the demand for Attaullah’s release or the nature of the protest. Further developments are expected as authorities investigate the incident.

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