AA says deep-rooted issues exist behind attacks on Bangladesh border unknown to public

Narinjara News, January 19, 2025

Arakan Army (AA) spokesperson U Khaing Thukha informed Narinjara that there are significant underlying problems associated with the assaults on AA camps located along the Bangladesh border by terrorist armed groups, which remain unknown to the public.

U Khaing Thukha issued this statement concerning the assaults on AA camps situated along the border and on Kyee Kyun Island in the Naf River on Sunday, January 11, which were perpetrated by the Arakan Rohingya Army (ARA), Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), and Rohingya Islamic Majaz (RIM).

“Numerous concealed motives exist behind the recent attacks at the Bangladesh border that the general public remains unaware of. The border guards and military intelligence of Bangladesh have been aiding these terrorist groups and positioning them at the border, which explains the occurrence of these attacks," U Khing Thuka stated.

The event coincides with the beginning of the hearing regarding the genocide accusations against the Junta government, which commenced at the International Court of Justice on January 12.

“The recent assaults by Muslim terrorist groups against AA are connected to the global movement over the Myanmar issue. Whenever a unique situation arises in the international community, they respond appropriately and promptly to address such humanitarian crises. This incident is one of those actions," he stated.

He additionally stated that the Bangladeshi officials responsible for these incidents are merely seeking to capture the fugitives with the intention of releasing them shortly afterward. If released, there is a higher probability that they will engage in more acts of violence.

"When individuals flee because they cannot fight, the Bangladeshi authorities detain them to make it look good. However, upon examining the charges against these terrorists, it becomes apparent that they may be readily accepted and subsequently released. They are expected to be released soon. If they are released, there is a higher chance that they will engage in further acts of violence," he stated.

He further stated that the consequences of this have affected the safety and well-being of Bangladeshi citizens residing near the border.

On January 11, when Muslim militant groups assaulted the camps of the Arakan Army, the AA responded forcefully, causing the terrorists to flee into Bangladesh with many casualties.

Among the 52 individuals, there are 29 members from ARA, 3 from ARSA, 18 from RIM, and two additional Bangladeshi nationals. Those who assaulted AA outposts along the border were apprehended by Bangladeshi police on January 11.

As reported by local media, all individuals who were arrested are from the UN-recognized Rohingya refugee camps, including Kutupalong in Ukhiya Township, Bangladesh. They allegedly utilized the refugee camps as military bases for their assault on the AA outposts in the border area.