Residents Flee Amid Border Gunfire Fear

In the Lomba Bil area of the Hoiakyang Union along the Cox’s Bazar–Teknaf road, fear and uncertainty grip the local population. Many homes are now padlocked, while families have sent their members to stay with relatives elsewhere, leaving some houses occupied only by male family members.

A ground survey on Tuesday afternoon revealed widespread panic among the residents. Earlier that morning, two homes had been struck by stray bullets fired from across the Myanmar border, with projectiles entering through windows.

Recent incidents have intensified local anxiety:

On Sunday morning, nine-year-old Huzaifa Afnan from Lomba Bil was injured by gunfire from across the border and is currently undergoing treatment in Dhaka.

On Monday, Mohammad Hanif, a local fish farmer, lost a leg due to a landmine explosion in the same area; he is receiving care at Chittagong Medical College Hospital.

Authorities have also detained 52 Rohingya individuals for illegal border crossing, sending them to prison via court order.

Meanwhile, the security situation across the border in Myanmar’s Rakhine State remains volatile. Since last Thursday, government forces have intensified air, drone, and mortar attacks on armed Arakan Army (AA) positions near Mungdhu Township, while three armed Rohingya groups have engaged in ground clashes with AA fighters. The resulting explosions frequently shake the border villages in Teknaf, with bullets striking homes, shrimp farms, and the Naf River.

Approximately 200 families reside near Techchi Bridge in Lomba Bil, just three kilometres from the Myanmar border. Residents report that armed groups across the border have repeatedly fired, causing bullets to reach local homes despite the short distance. Padlocks were seen on the homes of Abul Kalam, Amir Hossain, Abu Taher, and at least 27 others.

Local Acting Union Parishad Chairman Shahjalal told reporters that increased border security is urgently needed to protect residents. Many fish farmers and day labourers have been unable to access shrimp and crab farms for six consecutive days due to the cross-border gunfire. Rabiul Islam, who leased a farm for shrimp cultivation at BDT 1.2 million, and day labourer Rahim Mia, earning BDT 600–800 daily, have been unable to work, risking significant financial loss.

The father of Huzaifa Afnan, visibly distressed, recounted how his daughter was struck by a bullet while buying snacks at a nearby shop. Local families continue to hold prayers for her recovery. Similarly, Hanif’s father has demanded an investigation into the landmine incident.

Residents of the surrounding areas, including Techchi Bazar, have staged human chains demanding an end to the cross-border gunfire. District authorities confirm ongoing high-level talks with the Myanmar government to halt the violence and ensure civilian safety.