Tensions continue to escalate in Myanmar’s Rakhine State as clashes intensify between the Arakan Army, which controls parts of the region, and rival armed groups.
The renewed fighting has left many Rohingya residents vulnerable, prompting some to attempt crossing the Naf River into Bangladesh.
Border sources reported that around 10 p.m. on Friday, heavy gunfire broke out in several villages across the Naf River in Rakhine, opposite Teknaf’s Hnila border in Cox’s Bazar.
The exchange of fire continued intermittently until 5 a.m. Saturday, and the sound was clearly audible on the Bangladesh side.
Earlier on August 19, a five-hour gun battle took place near “Narikel Bagan” in Ghumdhum, Naikhyangchhari, as armed groups attempted to seize two border outposts under Arakan Army control. A similar clash had also erupted in the same area 10 days prior.
Locals in Teknaf reported that Friday night’s seven-hour-long gunfire created panic among fishermen working in the Naf River and residents of the border communities.
However, no stray bullets crossed into Bangladeshi territory. Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) patrols were deployed in the river to maintain security.
According to multiple sources, in recent weeks, the Arakan Army has come under attack from several groups including the Arakan Salvation Army (ARSA), Arakan Rohingya Solidarity Organization (ARSO), and the Arakan Rohingya Army (ARA).
These conflicts have displaced many Rohingya, with several thousand reportedly gathering near the Naf River close to Maungdaw Township, seeking to cross into Bangladesh.
On Friday alone, BGB foiled an infiltration attempt by 62 Rohingya on the Naf River. Lt. Col. Ashiqur Rahman, commander of BGB Battalion-2 in Teknaf, confirmed the incident and said intelligence reports indicate that thousands of Rohingya are waiting to enter Bangladesh.
He assured that BGB is actively patrolling both the river and land borders to prevent any illegal entry.
