As part of preparations for the upcoming national parliamentary elections, a joint task force, led by the Bangladesh military, has launched an operation against Rohingya refugees living illegally outside designated camps in Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar. The operation began in the early hours of Sunday in Balukhali Union and surrounding areas of Palongkhali, resulting in the detention of over 1,000 Rohingya individuals. The operation remains ongoing.
Officials from the joint task force stated that the mission aims to ensure a safe, violence-free, and uninterrupted election by actively monitoring and controlling the field environment. Observations during the operation indicated that the detained Rohingya had been residing outside the camp for extended periods without the permission of camp authorities, often with their families.
The authorities have announced that the detainees will be processed and returned to their respective camps promptly. This operation follows a series of similar measures undertaken previously. Earlier interventions in Burma Colony and adjacent areas in Dohazari, Chittagong, saw over 500 Rohingya detained and subsequently returned to official camps.
In coordination with local administration, the joint task force has intensified election-related security efforts, particularly in areas designated as polling zones and their surroundings. The operation seeks to remove unauthorised settlements and prevent the establishment of new illegal encampments, thereby maintaining order during the electoral period.
The following table summarises recent operations:
| Operation Date | Area | Number of Rohingya Detained | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Sunday morning | Balukhali & surrounding areas | 1,000+ | Closure of illegal settlements outside camps |
| Previous operation | Burma Colony, Dohazari | 500+ | Detainees returned to official camps |
Local authorities in Ukhiya worked closely with the task force, coordinating with Rohingya community leaders to manage the situation effectively. The operations have reinforced security in electoral areas and adjacent regions while ensuring that illegal settlements are dismantled in a structured manner.
Sources within the joint task force indicated plans to gradually expand operations to additional locations, with the objective of identifying and regulating all unauthorised settlements before the elections. Officials emphasised that these measures are part of a broader strategy to uphold public order, prevent electoral disturbances, and safeguard both residents and voters.