Conditions yet to be created in Myanmar for Rohingya repatriation: UNHCR

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) today made it clear that conditions are not in place yet for the safe, secure and sustainable return of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar.

Though Myanmar sent a small list of verified citizens for repatriation, the condition is not conducive for the return of the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals, the UN Refugee Agency added.

"Right at the moment, we don't believe conditions are created for safe return...conditions do not exist," George Okoth-Obbo, UNHCR's Assistant High Commissioner for Operations told reporters at a press conference wrapping up his 5-day visit to Bangladesh.

The UNHCR official laid emphasis on safe relocation of Rohingyas to avert deaths due to monsoon-triggered landslides and other disasters. "We remain extremely concerned."

In reply to a question about shifting Rohingyas to Bhasanchar, he said they want to know details about the facilities there.

He said a visit will be made to know the details about the place.