58 Rohingyas detained while attempting to enter Bangladesh

Members of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have detained 58 Rohingyas, including women, children, and elderly individuals, during an illegal entry attempt through the Buchitong border in Alikadam Upazila's Nayapara Union, Bandarban.

The operation was conducted by the Alikadam Battalion early today (11 January).

According to police and local sources, the detentions were made following a tip-off about Rohingyas fleeing Myanmar with assistance from several Bangladeshi nationals.

Acting on the information, BGB personnel launched a raid in the border area and held the group at around 4am.

They were intercepted while being transported on a truck, a private car, and several motorcycles.

Besides, five people accused of facilitating the illegal crossing were also detained during the operation.

Legal proceedings against them are underway, and cases are being prepared at Alikadam Police Station.

The Rohingyas, meanwhile, are expected to be pushed back to Myanmar as part of the authorities' ongoing efforts to prevent illegal crossings.

Alikadam Police Station's officer-in-charge Mirza Zahid Uddin confirmed receiving information about the detainees but said that no case had yet been filed.

"Appropriate measures will be taken once the case is lodged," he added.

The attempted crossings come amidst a protracted conflict in Myanmar, where disputes between the government and rebel groups have intensified, forcing many Rohingyas to flee the region in search of safety.

Bangladeshi authorities have been vigilant in monitoring the border and check the influx of refugees and maintain security.