Dhaka: Thirty seven Burmese nationals were pushed back to Burma on 20 April by Bangladeshi border security force the Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) after they entered Bangladesh territory illegally, according to a report.

Ten Burmese nationals were arrested by BDR, from Zimmong Khakil in Teknaf Township on 20 April, the report said.

Another 27 Burmese nationals were arrested by BDR from Hoykong, Sabrong, and Sahaporirdip border areas in Teknaf Township after they crossed the border in small machine boats on 19 April.

Following the arrests, BDR pushed them back to Burma on boats across the Naff River on 20 April.

This is the first time Bangladesh authorities have pushed back such a large group of Burmese nationals since the Burmese New Year, from 13 to 17 April.

U Maung Thein, a Muslim refugee from Kotapalung Camp, said that many Burmese have been entering Bangladesh seeking jobs because people are facing an economic crisis in Arakan State. "Even though Bangladesh authorities push back Burmese nationals to Burma, they will keep coming to Bangladesh given the economic crisis," he added.