Rohingya repatriation: Home minister points out Myanmar’s unkept promises

Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal has said the repatriation of Rohingyas from Bangladesh has been delayed several times as Myanmar’s words and actions do not match.

He said various agreements or understandings were signed with Myanmar on the Rohingya refugees’ return, but it did not progress due to the country’s internal affairs. 

“I hope Myanmar will take back the Rohingyas within a short time,” he said while visiting a Rohingya camp in Ukhiya in Cox’s Bazar on Friday. 

The home minister said some of those who are fighting inside Myanmar were reportedly spotted inside Rohingya camps in Bangladesh. 

“Our greatest concern is that our country doesn't produce any drugs, yet drugs have been entering from Myanmar for a long time. Currently, some individuals in the camps are involved in the drug trade. We are working to identify them. Our primary goal is to identify these individuals and bring them to justice,” he added.

The home minister further said he talked to the Armed Police Battalion (APBn) at the camps and learned about the challenges they face there.

“I told them that Bangladesh has created a history by curbing militancy and terrorism. APBn is helping Bangladesh move forward by providing security to the Rohingya camps. The situation in the Rohingya camps is peaceful and controlled as APBN is performing its duties,” he added.