Rohingya youth shot by Arakan Army, swims Naf river to reach Bangladesh

A Rohingya youth was shot and injured by the Arakan Army while fishing in the Naf River inside Myanmar near the Ukhia border in Cox's Bazar. He then swam across the Naf River, covering several kilometres while injured, and crossed into Bangladesh with the help of locals and BGB. He has been admitted to hospital.

The incident took place on Saturday morning, June 6, near the Chhotabil post of Ukhia border.

The matter was confirmed by Lieutenant Colonel Zahirul Islam, commander of BGB's Ukhia 64 Battalion.

According to BGB sources, locals spotted the injured Rohingya youth near the Chhotabil border post around 8:50 am and rescued him. He was later sent to hospital for treatment with the help of BGB members.

The injured youth has been identified as Md Ayub, 28, a resident of Block A-4 of Thaingkhali Rohingya camp in Ukhia.

During preliminary questioning, Ayub said he had crossed the zero line on Friday to go fishing about five kilometres inside Myanmar in the Bogardia area. While there, members of the armed group Arakan Army opened fire at him, leaving him injured.

Ayub claimed that despite being shot, he managed to compose himself and jumped into the Naf River to save his life. He was able to reach the Bangladesh border after swimming for a long time.

After being rescued, he was admitted to the Kutupalong MSF Hospital in Ukhia, where he is receiving treatment for bullet wounds.

BGB said it is gathering information about the incident and closely monitoring the border situation. Necessary measures have also been taken for the safety and treatment of the injured Rohingya youth.