Rohingyas exploited by local traders
SHAMSUDDIN ILLIUS from Teknaf
Media: The Independent
Original URL :Rohingyas exploited by local traders
E-paper URL: Rohingyas exploited by local traders
Rohingya refugees are being exploited by local traders during currency exchange from the kyat to the Bangladeshi taka (BDT). The traders are offering the refugess way less than the proper exchange value and sometimes the latter have no choice but to accept the amount.
Of late, local youths have developed the habit of buying currency, ornaments, and cows at cheap prices from the fleeing Rohingyas. They are often snatching valuables from the hapless refugees. Many locals are seen waiting on the roads and different border points in Ukhiya, Teknaf and Naikhonchhari upazilas. Md Sadek, 24, came from Tanbazar in Maungdaw with seven members of his family on Saturday. They reached the Kanjarpara border at 9pm. A local shopkeeper at Kanjarpara gave him Tk. 1,000 against Kyat 35,000, even though he had earlier received Tk. 1,000 against Kyat 15,000.
When asked, the shopkeeper said: “We’re charging double for the current unrest in the area.” It was also reported that some people have been giving Tk. 1,000 for Kyat 33,000– 40,000.According to the exchange rate of Bangladesh Bank, Tk. 1,000 is equivalent to only 16,600 Kyat.
