10 km Inside Bangladesh Border: Myanmar's Armed Group Arakan Army Holds Water Festival – Inactive BGB a Severe Threat to the Country's Sovereignty Special Correspondent, Bandarban, Bangladesh | April 20, 2025
The Myanmar-based armed rebel group Arakan Army held a water festival inside Bangladeshi territory, advancing approximately 10 kilometers into the country. The event took place on April 16 and 17 in the Remakri Muk area of Thanchi upazila’s Tindu union, Bandarban district. Uniformed and armed members of the group were visibly present at the festival.
Alarmingly, the event occurred within Bangladesh’s borders, with notable attendance from local public representatives, political leaders, and district council members. Members of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) were also present at the venue but reportedly remained completely inactive throughout.
Widespread Social Media Reaction
Photos and videos of the event were shared by the Arakan Army on its official social media channels and quickly went viral. These visuals showed the event stage and surrounding areas decorated with the flags and symbols of the Arakan Army and its political wing, the United League of Arakan (ULA), alongside visibly armed personnel. A significant number of local indigenous people—especially from the Marma community—participated in the event, with an estimated attendance of around 600–700 people.
Violation of Sovereignty, Threat to National Security
Analysts and concerned locals are viewing this incident as a direct violation of Bangladesh’s sovereignty. On social media, many have criticized BGB’s inactive stance and the government's lack of immediate and decisive response, calling it a severe failure in national security.
Locals commented, “For a foreign armed rebel group to enter 10 km into Bangladesh, organize such an event, and publicize it on social media—it’s not just alarming, it’s a direct challenge to our sovereignty.”
BGB's Position
When contacted, BGB representatives told the media that their presence was intended to “maintain national security and peace.” However, locals argue that “such silent spectatorship under the guise of ‘peacekeeping’ actually reflects a serious lapse in security.”
Experts are urging the government to issue a clear and effective response, and to conduct a thorough investigation followed by appropriate action against those involved. This kind of incursion and public display is not only a breach of international law, but also a blatant show of disrespect toward Bangladesh.
Given the current situation, it has become increasingly urgent to reinforce surveillance and defense mechanisms along the border. Failure to act may lead to greater national security threats from such foreign rebel activity on Bangladeshi soil in the future.
