by Hafizur Rahman
Eight individuals were arrested after Bangladesh Coast Guard intercepted a fishing boat carrying 600 bags of cement that were allegedly being transported illegally by sea toward Maungdaw in Rakhine State.
According to officials, the operation took place at around 1:00 am on February 23, 2026. Coast Guard personnel stopped the vessel in waters southeast of Chhera Dip near Saint Martin’s Island after suspecting it was attempting to bypass customs monitoring.
During the search, officers recovered 600 bags of cement. Authorities estimated the value of the seized goods at approximately 300,000 taka. The fishing boat used in the transport was also confiscated.
Preliminary information from security sources indicated that the cement was allegedly intended for delivery across the border. Some of those detained reportedly claimed the materials were meant for the Arakan Army. This claim has not been independently verified.
All eight individuals were taken into custody on allegations of illegal transportation and smuggling. Officials said further investigation is ongoing and legal proceedings will follow under applicable laws.
Authorities did not provide additional details regarding possible cross-border networks involved in the case.
