Investigation begins into Sri Lankan involvement in Rohingya smuggling

Following the arrival of Rohingya refugees and intelligence reports indicating plans to bring in an additional 100,000 people, police have initiated an investigation to determine whether any Sri Lankans are involved in this human smuggling operation, according to a government minister.

Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala confirmed in an interview with media that intelligence suggests a Sri Lankan may be involved in smuggling the refugees, and authorities are working to uncover the details.

The reports indicate that recruitment efforts are being made in Rohingya camps in the region, with Sri Lanka being promoted as a destination for these arrivals.

The UNHCR stated that Rohingya refugees, who are stateless individuals from Myanmar, have been seeking safety in the region, with a significant influx of arrivals in early January.

Just weeks ago, 115 Rohingyas arrived in Sri Lanka after losing six people at sea. So far, a total of 460 Rohingyas have arrived by boat in countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, after enduring weeks at sea.

Hai Kyung Jun, Director of UNHCR’s Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific, emphasized the need to prioritize saving lives and commended regional governments for their efforts to assist these vulnerable refugees.

He expressed readiness to support local governments and efforts to help these individuals who fled violence and persecution in Myanmar.

This influx coincides with the “sailing season,” a calmer period between the monsoon seasons, as fighting in Myanmar intensifies. In 2024, more than 7,800 Rohingyas attempted to flee by boat, marking an 80 percent increase from the previous year.

Tragically, over 650 people died or went missing during the perilous journey.

Notably, the number of children and women attempting to flee has increased, with children now making up 44 percent of passengers.

There are reports of boats being turned back, raising concerns about the rights of refugees to seek safety.

Jun called for continued search and rescue efforts, urging states to ensure survivors receive the protection and support they need.

As the situation in Myanmar deteriorates, the UNHCR anticipates further flights in the coming months, emphasizing the need for continued cooperation among regional organizations like ASEAN and the Bali Process to address irregular maritime movements.

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