As Bangladesh implements a nationwide security blanket for the February 12 national elections, a critical vulnerability has emerged along the southeastern border. The multi-million dollar barbed wire fence intended to secure Rohingya refugee camps has fallen into extreme disrepair, allowing thousands to move freely into local communities.
Local officials and residents warn that this security gap poses a direct threat to election integrity in the Ukhia-Teknaf region.
Community leaders and analysts are raising alarms over a "blueprint" by unscrupulous groups to use refugees as mercenaries. There are growing fears that Rohingyas could be hired to provide "muscle power" or create instability at polling stations.
"The lack of active participation in camp security by central leadership has left a vacuum," said one local political analyst. "Rumors and political divisions are peaking. Any security lapse in the camps now could have national consequences."
The current state of the 33 camps in Ukhia and Teknaf—home to over 1.2 million people—is described by locals as "deplorable." Large sections of the barbed wire perimeter are missing or destroyed. Of the 150 CCTV cameras installed to monitor the camps, only an estimated 10 to 20 remain functional.
Residents report that brokers are facilitating camp exits for bribes ranging from 500 to 2,000 Taka ($4–$17), allowing refugees to travel as far as Chattogram and Dhaka.
In response, joint forces have launched "combing operations" to relocate refugees living illegally outside camp limits. Recently, approximately 1,000 individuals were detained in Ukhia and returned to the camps.
Local voters, citing safety concerns, have called for a complete "lockdown" of the refugee camps through the election period. Security officials have also suggested limiting high-speed internet in the area to disrupt communication between criminal elements.
"We are maintaining constant vigil," said Alab Biswas, Cox's Bazar Additional Superintendent of Police. "Intelligence units are active in every camp. We will take strict action against anyone attempting to exploit this population for electoral gain."
