Bangladesh to build two army camps near Rohingya settlements

Bangladesh authorities have announced plans to establish two new army camps in the hilly areas of Noakhalipara and Rangikhali near the Rohingya refugee settlements in Cox’s Bazar. The decision, announced by Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, aims to combat rising criminal activities including kidnappings for ransom, drug trafficking, human trafficking, online gambling, and the movement of armed groups.

The new camps will operate under the command of the Bangladesh Army’s 10th Infantry Division. To bolster security, the government also plans to upgrade infrastructure by repairing damaged barbed-wire fencing and border walls, installing solar-powered lighting, adding CCTV cameras, and constructing new watchtowers and control towers.

Additionally, the investigative powers of the Armed Police Battalion (APBn) have been expanded. Approximately 400 sub-inspector-level officers have been granted legal authority to investigate offenses related to drugs, human trafficking, and online gambling within the camps.