25 June 2026 — Reports from Bangladeshi media and local sources indicate increased movement of the Khumi People’s Force (KPF), an armed group operating along the Bangladesh–Myanmar border area.
KPF is the armed wing of the Khumi National Congress Party (KNCP), based in Paletwa township, Chin State, and was formed in 2025.
According to a letter sent by KPF to the Bangladesh Border Guard (BGB), the group said its formation was in response to pressures faced by local ethnic organisations following the Arakan Army’s (AA) control of Paletwa township after 2024.
The group also sent another letter to the BGB on 25 May 2026, requesting access for movement and dialogue in the border area. A similar request was sent to the Chief Minister’s Office of Mizoram State, India, seeking permission to establish a training camp in the Lawngtlai area, according to Jamuna Television.
Cox’s Bazar regional commander of the Bangladesh Border Guard (BGB), Brigadier General Mohammad Aksar Khan, stated that no armed group would be allowed to operate in the border area. He confirmed receiving the letter but said the requests would not be accepted.
Local reports suggest KPF members have been active for the past two months in the Ruma and Thanchi border areas of Bandarban District, Bangladesh. They were first seen in mid-April near Kespai Para village close to the tri-border point of Bangladesh, India, and Myanmar, according to Jamuna Television.
They have also reportedly been sighted in Tongbrai Dulu Chand, Thandai, and Kramchi Para villages. In late May 2026, they were again observed near Pau Para village in Tindu Union of Thanchi Township.
Some reports indicate that KPF members later entered Kramchi Para village opposite Tindu market and formed a local administrative committee, although residents have been reluctant to speak publicly due to security concerns.
As of now, KPF has not issued any official statement regarding these activities. Its strength, capabilities, and relationships with other armed groups in Myanmar remain unverified. – Reporting by Ben
