Online Report : Gunfire and explosions echoed across the Naf River overnight as fresh clashes erupted in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, prompting a surge in attempted Rohingya crossings into Bangladesh.

The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has responded by tightening security along the Teknaf border, intensifying patrols both on land and water.

According to local residents and border officials, gunfire from automatic weapons and mortar blasts were heard from around 10:00 PM Friday until 5:00 AM Saturday, particularly near the Hoaikyang border point.

“The shelling went on for nearly seven hours,” said Sirajul Mostafa Chowdhury, a local union parishad member. “It caused panic among villagers and fishermen working near the river.”

The violence marked a renewed escalation in Rakhine, where the Arakan Army (AA) has taken control of military and border outposts previously held by Myanmar’s junta.

On August 19, a fierce gun battle broke out near the Ghumdhum border, reportedly involving clashes between the AA and rival Rohingya groups—ARSA, RSO, and RIA—fighting for territory.

With civilians once again fleeing the fighting, large groups of Rohingya are reportedly gathering near Maungdaw, seeking to cross into Bangladesh.

On Friday, BGB intercepted 62 Rohingya trying to enter via boat.

“Thousands are reportedly waiting on the other side,” said Lt. Col. Ashikur Rahman, commander of Teknaf-2 Battalion. “We’re stepping up patrols and surveillance to stop illegal entry.”

Local authorities have alerted both district and national-level agencies.

“Law enforcement is on maximum alert,” said UNO Sheikh Ehsan Uddin. “BGB and Coast Guard units are closely monitoring the entire border.”

Several suspected armed group members have been detained in recent weeks,” he added.

On August 11, Jibon Tanchangya surrendered in Ukhiya with an AK-47, ammunition, and magazines.

On August 17, two alleged Arakan Army operatives were arrested near the Tumbru border.

According to OC Masrul Haque of Naikhongchhari Police Station, five individuals—three from Myanmar and two Bangladeshis—have been jailed in Bandarban for suspected militant activity.

Border villages like Hoaikyang remain tense. Local farmers, traders, and fishermen living near the river are fearful as the conflict escalates.

“The Rohingya villages across the border are now battlegrounds,” said Mahmudur Rahman, a shrimp trader. “People are desperate to flee, just like in 2017.”

The recent fighting has displaced hundreds, raising concerns of a new refugee influx at a time when Bangladesh already hosts over 1 million Rohingya.