Two members of the armed wing of the Kuki-Chin National Front (KNF), known as the Kuki-Chin National Army (KNA), were reportedly killed in a military operation in the remote hilly areas of Ruma upazila in Bandarban.
According to official sources, the army launched a pre-dawn operation on Thursday in the remote Poli Prangsa area of Ruma.
During the operation, an exchange of gunfire took place between army personnel and KNA members.
After the encounter, security forces recovered two bodies from the area, one of whom is believed to be a senior KNA commander.
The operation also led to the seizure of significant arms and ammunition, including three submachine guns (SMGs), one rifle, and various rounds of ammunition.
Military teams continued the operation on Thursday morning, with further details expected as communication with the area remains limited due to a lack of mobile network coverage.
Law enforcement teams, including two army units and a police contingent, have been dispatched to the scene for further investigation and area security.
The Kuki-Chin National Army, locally referred to as the “Bawm Party,” has long been advocating for an autonomous region called the “Kuki-Chin State,” which they envision as a homeland for ethnic groups such as the Bawm, Khiyang, Pangkhuya, Lushai, Khumi, and Mro—excluding the Chakma, Marma, and Tripura communities.
In recent months, ongoing operations against the KNA and KNF have prompted thousands of members of the Bawm community to seek refuge in neighboring India’s Mizoram and nearby jungles.
However, with the support of the Bangladesh Army and the Bawm Social Council, many families have begun returning to their homes.
The council has reported that around 300 returning families are now facing severe food shortages.
