Bangladesh, February 28, 2025: The ongoing Rohingya crisis continues to devastate communities both in Myanmar and Bangladesh, with frequent violence, displacement, and hardships. This newsletter aims to provide the latest updates from the affected regions, including developments in Rakhine State and the Rohingya refugee camps in Bangladesh.
Violence and Displacement in Rakhine State
On February 10, 2025, a landmine explosion in Maungdaw Township, Myanmar, killed Ferus Khan, a Rohingya civilian, and injured four others: Mohammad Nur, Mohammed Junaid, Akter Ahmed, and Mohammad Hussein. The blast occurred in Gunnah Hamlet, Shwe Zar village, illustrating the ongoing dangers faced by the Rohingya in this region.
On the same day, Arakan Army (AA) soldiers seized control of 50 apartment buildings in Shwe Zar village, Maungdaw Township. Posters were placed on the buildings instructing residents to vacate. In one case, families who had just returned to their apartments were given an ultimatum: leave by 6 PM or face forced relocation. This incident highlights the increasingly violent control exerted by the AA over the region.
The Arakan Army’s military actions have escalated since November 2023, with significant territorial gains. On February 8, 2025, the AA began shelling the Sittwe Township, the last town under junta control in northern Rakhine. Despite sporadic exchanges of artillery fire between the AA and the Myanmar military, there are increasing fears that a full-scale assault on Sittwe, the capital of Rakhine, is imminent. The AA’s campaign has continued to occupy ground, capturing key strategic locations in Rakhine, including Ann and Maungdaw.
The AA’s forced displacement of Rohingya civilians has been a key feature of their expansion, with reports of forced relocations in Buthidaung Township. On February 20-21, the AA dismantled Gyi Naut Thee village, relocating residents to Nga Yant Chaung village, where they now live under strict conditions. In addition, Rohingya fishermen from the Naf River were abducted by the AA on February 14, 2025.
Violence and Tragedy in Rohingya Refugee Camps
In Bangladesh, the Rohingya refugee camps continue to face internal violence and challenges. On February 12, 2025, the mysterious death of Mohammad Ayas, a 21-year-old from the Madhurachhara camp in Ukhiya, sparked concern. His family believes he took his own life after a gambling-related financial crisis. The incident highlights the immense psychological strain placed on many young refugees.
On February 14, a Rohingya man was found brutally murdered in Camp 26. The cause of death remains under investigation, adding to the concerns surrounding safety within the camps.
The challenges faced by the Rohingya are compounded by violence between camp residents. On February 27, a sword attack occurred in Camp-1E, where MD Rohim, aged 28, was severely injured by Majuma Begum from Camp-2W. This attack follows a disturbing trend of rising violence within the refugee camps, where tensions often spill over into serious confrontations.
Despite the hardships, moments of hope have emerged in the form of community solidarity. On February 26, the Arakan Rohingya Football Federation Tournament 2025 concluded with Namay-2 defeating Inndin Team Namay-8 in the final match held at Camp-4. The tournament, which brought pride and joy to many displaced individuals, showcased the resilience and unity of the Rohingya community.
International Attention and Efforts for a Sustainable Resolution
In the international arena, there have been ongoing efforts to address the Rohingya crisis. On February 28, 2025, UNHCR head Filippo Grandi met with Md. Touhid Hossain, Bangladesh’s Adviser for Foreign Affairs, to discuss the need for long-term solutions to prevent further regional instability. Hossain emphasized the urgency of finding a durable resolution to the crisis.
Additionally, UN Special Envoy Julie Bishop met with the Bangladesh government on February 25 to advocate for a political resolution in Myanmar and ensure the safe, dignified return of the Rohingya refugees. The proposed UN conference initiated by Bangladesh’s interim Chief Adviser, Muhammad Yunus, is a key part of the international push to resolve the ongoing crisis.
Looking Ahead
As February 2025 draws to a close, the urgent need for a political solution to the crisis is clearer than ever. The Rohingya community, both in Myanmar and in Bangladesh, continues to face immense challenges, but the spirit of solidarity within the camps and the ongoing diplomatic efforts highlight the determination to bring an end to this long-standing tragedy.