Cox’s Bazar, Aug 11 (V7N) – Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) arrested an armed member of the Myanmar-based rebel group Arakan Army after he crossed into Bangladesh through the Balukhali border in Ukhiya on Monday morning. The man was found in possession of one AK-47 rifle, 52 rounds of ammunition, and two magazines.

The detainee has been identified as Jibon Tanchangya (21), son of Chingmong Tanchangya, a resident of Garjbonia area under Ghumdhum Union in Naikhongchhari upazila of Bandarban district.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Jasim Uddin, Commanding Officer of BGB Battalion 64 in Ukhiya, the individual crossed the zero line from Myanmar’s Rakhine State at approximately 8:45 AM and voluntarily surrendered his weapon to BGB personnel at a Balukhali border outpost. He also sought protection, claiming personal security threats.

“During preliminary questioning, the detainee admitted to being a member of the Arakan Army. He stated that he fled from a Mongdu-based camp inside Myanmar due to personal safety concerns,” said Lt. Col. Jasim Uddin. “According to his testimony, nearly 300 Arakan Army members have deserted their posts in recent days and may attempt to enter Bangladesh to surrender.”

The BGB has informed higher authorities of the incident and is in the process of handing over the detainee to Ukhiya Police Station for further legal action under applicable laws.

The incident comes amid increasing instability in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, where ongoing armed conflict between the Arakan Army and junta forces has led to violence, displacement, and growing cross-border concerns for Bangladesh.

Security agencies in the region have been placed on alert in anticipation of further attempts by armed individuals to enter Bangladesh. Authorities have reiterated that all unlawful border crossings, regardless of motive, will be handled strictly in accordance with national law.

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