TDS Desk:

In order to escape the ongoing conflict in Rakhine of Myanmar, more than a hundred Border Guard Force (BGF) and army members have fled to Teknaf and sought refuge with Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB).

Over the past two days, people from Myanmar have been trespassing into Teknaf. On Wednesday morning, 20 people sought shelter, and on Thursday, 119 members of the Myanmar Army and Border Guard Police found refuge.

The military junta of Myanmar and the rebel group Arkan Army have reportedly been engaged in fierce fighting for the past few days in an attempt to take control of Rakhine border town Maungdaw.

Most areas of Maungdaw are already under the control of the Arakan Army. Currently, Maungdaw Township is the sole target of the war.

Multiple sources on the border reported that the Arakan Army has surrounded Maungdaw Township. Gunfire and explosions are rocking the border areas of Teknaf. Because of this, the Myanmar army and BGF members are fleeing to Bangladesh.

From Thursday morning to afternoon, Myanmar army and BGF members crossed the Naf River in three stages at the border locations of Nazirpara, Shahpari Island, and Teknaf upazila Sabrang.

Later, members of the BGB and Coast Guard disarmed the individuals and took them into custody. However, no statement has been received from the BGB and Coast Guard regarding this incident.

Executive Officer (UNO) of Teknaf Upazila Adnan Chowdury said, “It has come to my attention that personnel from the Myanmar Army and BGF have sought refuge here. They are in the custody of the BGB and Coast Guard.

“Besides, the law enforcement forces are on alert at the border.”

Mohiuddin Ahmed, commanding officer of Bangladesh Border Guard (BGB) Teknaf 2 Battalion, said, “We are constantly patrolling both the land and maritime borders. We are ready to deal with any situation.”