- 9 more members of Myanmar’s Border Guard Police (BGP) have taken shelter in Bangladesh
- 2 individuals required medical treatment for injuries sustained during their flight
Amidst the persistent conflict between the junta force and the Arakan Army in Rakhine state, nine members of the Myanmar Border Guard Police (BGP) sought refuge in Bangladesh, underscoring the intensifying violence along the border.
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On Sunday morning, April 14, 2024, the BGP members fled to the Kharangkhali border in Teknaf, Bangladesh, citing the ongoing fighting with rebel groups near the border as the reason for their escape. Confirming the incident, Lt Col Mohiuddin Ahmed, commanding officer of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) battalion-2 in Teknaf, disclosed that the BGP members entered Bangladesh in two phases, armed with weapons and ammunition. The BGB promptly seized their arms and took them into custody, with two individuals requiring medical treatment for injuries sustained during their flight.
“Due to various reasons including language barriers, we could not fully verify their identities. However, from the information we have gathered, we understand that all those who sought refuge are connected to Myanmar’s BGP. They are now in our custody,” said Lt Col Mohiuddin.
Previous Incident
This recent exodus of BGP members adds to a growing trend of Myanmar nationals seeking refuge in Bangladesh amidst the escalating conflict. Previously, on March 11, 179 BGP members sought shelter through the Jamchhari border in Bandarban’s Naikhongchhari upazila, where they remain in BGB custody.
The influx of Myanmar nationals into Bangladesh peaked on February 15, when 330 individuals, including BGP officials, army personnel, immigration members, and civilians, entered the country. Among them, at least 68 individuals, including 15 with bullet injuries, fled to Bangladesh following heightened tensions between the Myanmar junta force and the Arakan Army on February 4. Tragically, the conflict claimed the lives of a Bangladeshi woman and a Rohingya man on February 5 in Bandarban’s Ghumdhum, highlighting the grave consequences of the ongoing strife.
The continuous conflict between the junta force and the Arakan Army has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, prompting an increasing number of Myanmar nationals, including BGP members, to seek refuge across the border. The situation has engendered anxiety and fear among border communities, necessitating urgent action to address the crisis and ensure the safety and security of all affected individuals.
As tensions persist in Rakhine state, concerted efforts are required from regional stakeholders to mitigate the humanitarian impact and facilitate a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
How Should Bangladesh Handle Myanmar’s Fleeing Soldiers?
As conflict along the Myanmar-Bangladesh border intensifies, it’s anticipated that instances of Myanmar soldiers and civilians seeking refuge in Bangladesh will become more frequent. In light of this, Bangladesh must reassess its approach to handling these situations.
The act of repatriation raises important discussions surrounding the principle of non-refoulement, a principle enshrined in numerous international treaties. Bangladesh, as a signatory to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, is bound by this principle. However, it’s important to note that non-refoulement is also recognized under customary international law, meaning that even in the absence of specific treaty obligations, states are still required to adhere to it.
This understanding of customary international law was affirmed by the Supreme Court of Bangladesh in 2017. In a case involving a Rohingya refugee, the court recognized the applicability of the non-refoulement principle, stating that the 1951 Refugee Convention has become customary international law and is binding on all countries.
Bangladesh currently hosts a large Rohingya refugee population who fled violence in Myanmar. Investigating whether any fleeing soldiers were involved in or possess information about atrocities against the Rohingya could contribute to efforts to hold perpetrators accountable and create conditions conducive to refugee repatriation.
Bangladesh has previously collaborated with international bodies like the International Criminal Court (ICC) to hold alleged perpetrators accountable for atrocities committed in Myanmar. Continuing such cooperation and actively investigating fleeing soldiers could strengthen efforts to ensure justice for the Rohingya.
From a political standpoint, Bangladesh should also consider the implications of returning soldiers to Myanmar.
Myanmar Civil War: Escalation and Ongoing Conflict
The Myanmar civil war, stemming from long-running insurgencies, intensified after the 2021 military coup. The National Unity Government (NUG) and ethnic armed groups rejected the 2008 Constitution, advocating for a democratic federal state. Humanitarian crises have unfolded, with millions needing aid and over 1.6 million internally displaced. By October 2023, the military-controlled less than 40% of the country, facing manpower issues and successful rebel offensives.
Despite terror tactics, anti-junta forces have made gains, capturing strategic towns. As of April 2024, the conflict persists, with recent captures by anti-junta forces indicating ongoing resistance against the military regime.
In conclusion, Bangladesh faces a complex dilemma in handling fleeing Myanmar soldiers. Balancing humanitarian concerns with international obligations and political realities requires a nuanced approach. As the crisis persists, regional stakeholders must collaborate to mitigate its impact and facilitate a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
