14 Myanmar Soldiers Surrender to Border Guard Bangladesh

Khaing Lu Hla (Roma Mray)

Narinjara, 20 August 2026

A 14-member Myanmar military contingent comprising army, border guard, and police personnel has surrendered to Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), according to local reports.

The group entered Bangladesh illegally through the Alikadam border in Bandarban district, crossing over from Arakan State via the Alikadam border, opposite Buthidaung Township in Arakan State.

Extreme tension and instability gripped the border area following their entry.

According to the BGB, all 14 personnel are male. They were unarmed and dressed in civilian clothing when they arrived. They crossed the border on Tuesday and surrendered at the Kurukpata Killaipara checkpoint under the Alikadam Battalion (57 BGB).

BGB personnel took them into custody, brought them to the battalion headquarters, and conducted initial interrogations. The detainees were later handed over to the Alikadam police station on Wednesday night for necessary legal action.

Lieutenant Colonel Abdullah Al Mehedi, commanding officer of the Alikadam 57 BGB, confirmed the development to TIMES of Bangladesh.

In response, the BGB stepped up security and increased 24-hour surveillance to manage the situation. The 14 individuals remain in Bangladesh.

Because Alikadam lies close to Buthidaung Township where the Arakan Army (AA) operates, investigations are underway to determine whether the soldiers escaped active conflict zones or were released following detention.