Rohingya Refugees Arrive in Eastern Province - Sri Lanka Amid Ongoing Crisis
The Rohingya people, who continue to endure the consequences of violence and persecution in Myanmar, have sought refuge in many countries to ensure their safety.
In a recent incident, a group of 120 individuals fleeing Myanmar embarked on a perilous journey across international waters in three boats. After enduring 16 harrowing days at sea, two of the boats broke down, forcing all passengers onto a single vessel. Tragically, as reported in the Refugee Statement, five individuals—two men, two women, and one child—lost their lives during the journey.
On December 19, 2024, the remaining 115 survivors, including 27 women, 39 men, 23 girls, and 26 boys, reached the Mullaitivu coastal area of Sri Lanka. Responding swiftly, the Sri Lankan Navy transported them to Trincomalee overnight, where they were provided shelter at the Ashraf camp on the morning of December 20, 2024.
Government and Organizational Response
The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, along with the Government Agent (GA) and Divisional Secretary (DS), immediately took charge of the situation. Due to their unauthorized entry into the country, the refugees have been referred to the appropriate legal authorities and will be presented before the magistrate.
In the interim, essential food supplies have been provided by the GA and DS based on the refugees’ immediate needs. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have also stepped in to offer humanitarian assistance.
The Aham Humanitarian Resource Center (AHRC) has contributed to these efforts by providing food and water facilities for the refugees today. In addition, the AHRC team visited Trincomalee Jamaliya Muslim Maha Vidyalaya, where the refugees had been accommodated, distributing essential items including non-perishable lunches, water, and fruits.
On the morning of December 24, 2024, the refugees were transported under police protection in two buses to Colombo for further assistance and processing. UNHCR representatives also visited the site in Trincomalee to assess the situation.
Call to Action
As these refugees are now being brought to Colombo, AHRC urges Colombo-based organizations, social activists, and legal professionals to extend their support by providing necessary facilities, legal aid, and resources to ensure these individuals receive adequate care and protection.
Urgent Call for Humanitarian Aid
The refugees, especially women and children, remain in vulnerable conditions and require immediate support. Priority assistance is needed in the following areas:
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Emergency Relief: Providing immediate resources to address critical needs.
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Hygiene Products: Ensuring access to essential sanitation supplies to maintain health and dignity.
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Food Supplies: Sustained nutritional support for the group.
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Clothing: Adequate clothing for all individuals, particularly women and children.
This situation calls for collective and sustained humanitarian action to support these individuals who have endured immense hardship. AHRC, alongside other organizations, remains committed to addressing their urgent needs, but broader support is essential to ensure comprehensive care and protection.
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