A Rohingya elder tragically died in a stampede during an iftar gathering held in the presence of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus. The incident occurred on Friday, around 2:30 PM, at the helipad area of Camp 20 in the Rohingya refugee settlement. The deceased, identified as Neyamot Ullah, son of Sabi Miah from Camp 4, was among three individuals injured when they fell from a hillside while attempting to join the iftar event.
Incident Details
According to the Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Ukhia Police Station, Muhammad Arif Hossain, the stampede occurred as attendees rushed to participate in the iftar gathering. Neyamot Ullah, who sustained severe injuries, was declared dead by physicians upon arrival at the hospital. The other two injured individuals, Asmat Ullah, son of Asad Ullah, and Kalim Ullah, son of Bashir Ahmed, both from the same camp, were also hospitalized. Asmat Ullah was transferred to Cox's Bazar Sadar Hospital due to the severity of his condition.
Background Context
The iftar gathering was organized to provide relief and support to the Rohingya community, who have been living in refugee camps in Cox's Bazar since fleeing Myanmar in 2017. The event aimed to bring together international dignitaries and local leaders to show solidarity with the Rohingya people during the holy month of Ramadan.
Community Reaction
The incident has sparked concern and sorrow within the Rohingya community and among humanitarian organizations working in the area. Efforts are underway to ensure the safety and security of future events and to provide support to the affected families.
Official Response
Authorities are investigating the circumstances leading to the stampede to prevent similar incidents in the future. The UN and local officials have expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and are coordinating with medical teams to provide necessary care to the injured.
