by Hafizur Rahman
Chattogram, Bangladesh | July 14, 2026
The Bangladesh Coast Guard has seized 2,400 bags of cement, 250 bags of DAP fertilizer, and three cargo boats during an anti-smuggling operation, while arresting 22 suspected smugglers, authorities said.
According to the Coast Guard, the operation was launched on July 13 after officials received intelligence that a group was planning to smuggle cement and fertilizer from Bangladesh to Maungdaw Township in Myanmar’s Rakhine State.
Authorities said the fertilizer had been repackaged in counterfeit bags bearing the logo of the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BADC) in an apparent attempt to conceal its identity.
Following the intelligence report, the Coast Guard increased patrols and surveillance in the outer anchorage of Chattogram Port.
At around 5:00 p.m., personnel from the Patenga Coast Guard Station intercepted and searched three cargo boats suspected of transporting the goods.
During the operation, officers seized 2,400 bags of cement, valued at approximately BDT 1.4 million, 250 bags of DAP fertilizer, and the three boats allegedly used in the smuggling operation. Authorities also arrested 22 people on suspicion of involvement.
The Coast Guard said the arrested suspects, along with the seized goods and vessels, have been handed over to the relevant authorities for further legal proceedings.
