Myanmar conflict: 34 Rohingyas rescued while entering Teknaf

The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) today (5 January) rescued 34 Rohingyas, including women and children, while entering Cox's Bazar's Teknaf from neighbouring Myanmar, amidst the ongoing conflict.

"BGB personnel spotted the trawler carrying the Rohingyas from Myanmar drifting in the sea near Mundardail point in Sabrang Union of the Upazila this afternoon," Commander of the BGB's Teknaf-2 Battalion Lieutenant Colonel Ashikur Rahman said.

"The boat eventually drifted ashore, and the 34 Rohingyas, including women and children, on board were rescued."

The BGB commander further said the rescued individuals revealed that they were residents of the Nashang area, east of Akyab in Myanmar's Rakhine State. They said they were trying to escape the ongoing conflict between the Myanmar military and Arakan Army.

He also said they had been adrift for five days after the engine broke down, leading them to drift into Bangladeshi waters.

"Arrangements are being made to send them back to their homeland," the commander added.

According to the rescued Rohingyas, intense fighting is ongoing between Myanmar's military and the Arakan Army in Rakhine State. Both sides are reportedly forcing Rohingyas to join the conflict, and those who refuse face brutal torture and persecution.

To escape the violence, the group attempted to seek refuge in Bangladesh.