The arrest of Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) leader has reportedly sparked tensions in Rohingya camps and along the Myanmar-Bangladesh border.
Following the news of Ataullah Abu Ammar Jununi's arrest, loud explosions were heard across the border in Maungdaw, Myanmar, causing panic among residents.
Residents of Teknaf's Sabrang Union reported hearing loud explosions from Maungdaw, just across the border around 8:15 PM On Tuesday (March 18). The explosions have raised concerns about potential unrest in the Rohingya camps, with locals calling for increased security measures.
Rapid Action Battalion (RAB)arrested Jununi and nine other ARSA members in separate raids in Narayanganj’s Siddhirganj and Mymensingh on Sunday (March 16) during a secret meeting allegedly held to plan subversive activities. Many Rohingya refugees fear that Jununi’s arrest could spark unrest within the camps.
Local residents also expressed concerns about law and order. According to a resident of Teknaf’s Nayapara, "We hadn't heard such powerful explosions near the border in a long time. But since the news of ARSA chief’s arrest broke, explosions have been occurring since 7 PM. We need increased security patrols in border and camp areas."
Abu Musa, a resident of the Leda refugee camp, added, "Some Rohingya groups supporting ARSA are trying to become active. This could lead to serious unrest. Security inside the camps must be strengthened."
Mohammad Rafiq, a resident of Camp 22, noted, "Those associated with ARSA are issuing threats on social media. This has left us feeling unsafe."
Shorif Ahmad, a panel chairman of Sabrang Union Parishad, reported, "After nearly 17 days of calm, loud explosions were suddenly heard across the Myanmar border near Maungdaw at around 8:15 PM. Soon after, flames were visible from across the border. As of 10 PM, we can still see fire burning on the other side."
ARSA-affiliated groups have been trying to exert full control over various Rohingya camps in Cox’s Bazar, often engaging in illegal trade, drug smuggling, and extortion. Local Rohingya leaders assisting authorities in maintaining order have reportedly been targeted and killed by ARSA operatives.
In response, Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Sheikh Ehsan Uddin stated that security forces have been alerted. "After hearing the explosion, we immediately contacted the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and Coast Guard. Instructions have been given to intensify border patrols and surveillance."
