By: Camp Correspondent
May 8, 2025 | Cox’s Bazar
The Bangladesh Coast Guard has intercepted an alleged smuggling attempt involving 742 sacks of urea fertiliser bound for Myanmar’s Rakhine State. The operation took place near St. Martin’s Island during a late-night maritime patrol on May 7, leading to the detention of 11 individuals, all of whom are reportedly Rohingya refugees.
According to Lt Commander HMM Harun-ur-Rashid, spokesperson for the Coast Guard, the incident unfolded around midnight when the Coast Guard vessel Mansur Ali detected a suspicious trawler operating despite the ongoing 58-day fishing ban in the area.
“When signaled to halt, the trawler attempted to flee. Our team chased and successfully intercepted the boat. Inside, we discovered large quantities of fertiliser intended for illegal transport to Myanmar,” Harun-ur-Rashid said.
Trawler Seized, Legal Action Underway
The fertiliser and fishing trawler seized have been handed over to theTeknaf Police Station and Teknaf Customs warehouse, respectively. Authorities have confirmed that legal proceedings are underway under the relevant smuggling and maritime control laws.
The detainees are reportedly from Rohingya camps in Ukhiya and adjacent areas of Chattogram district. Officials are verifying their identities and potential networks involved in cross-border logistics.
Larger Concerns Over Maritime Smuggling During Ban
The incident has raised renewed concerns over the exploitation of maritime routes for cross-border trade, especially during the seasonal fishing ban, which is meant to protect marine breeding cycles.
Law enforcement officials point to increased activity in the Teknaf–St. Martin’s–Naf River corridor, which has long been a known route for irregular movement of goods and people between Bangladesh and Rakhine State.
“These activities not only undermine maritime regulations but also create new risks in an already fragile border environment,” said one official.
Community Caution and Broader Context
While the suspects are reported to be Rohingya refugees, rights advocates caution against broad-stroke criminalization of refugee communities, emphasizing that desperation and lack of livelihood options often drive such incidents.
“With limited mobility, no legal work rights, and shrinking aid, some individuals may be exploited by smuggling networks,” said a humanitarian worker in Cox’s Bazar.
As authorities continue their investigation, the incident underscores the urgent need for livelihood alternatives, stronger surveillance, and fair legal processes to prevent exploitation of vulnerable communities and ensure cross-border peace.
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