Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh The sound of gunfire and explosions echoed across the Naf River from Myanmar’s Rakhine State as the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army engaged in fierce clashes. Over the past two days, we have observed a large warship patrolling the river, as well as visible Myanmar Navy warships and aircraft in the region.
The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and Coast Guard are on high alert due to the escalating conflict. Heavy shelling and mortar fire from Myanmar has been audible from Bangladesh, causing significant concern among residents of Teknaf and surrounding areas.
According to Noor Hossain, chairman of the Sabrang Union Council, the sound of mortar shells and gunfire has created vibrations felt across Teknaf’s Shah Porir Dwip. The ongoing conflict has led to sleepless nights for local residents, who fear potential spillover effects.
The Arakan Army has taken over several camps in Rakhine State, according to reports. Local sources reported seeing a warship in Myanmar’s waters near Shah Porir Dwip and hearing continuous loud explosions throughout the night.
St. Martin’s Island, Bangladesh’s only coral island, is also experiencing the impact. The island’s residents are alarmed by the presence of Myanmar aircraft and the sound of explosions. Safety concerns had suspended the movement of passenger and goods-carrying boats to and from St. Martin’s Island for 10 days, but under BGB and Coast Guard protection, they resumed.
Trawlers have transported approximately 300 stranded individuals, including hotel workers and laborers, back to Teknaf. The suspension of boat services had left these individuals stranded on the island. We are planning to send additional goods from Cox’s Bazar to address the food supply shortage on the island.
Residents and officials in Teknaf and Shah Porir Dwip remain on edge. The BGB has intensified patrols along the 54-kilometer stretch of the Naf River, preparing to prevent any unauthorized crossings. The Commander of Teknaf 2 BGB, Lieutenant Colonel Mohiuddin Ahmed, confirmed the strengthening of border patrols to prevent Rohingya influxes.
The conflict in Myanmar involves heavy fighting between the Arakan Army and government forces, particularly around Maungdaw, Buthidaung, and Rathedaung. The use of heavy artillery has resulted in significant explosions, heard clearly from the Bangladeshi side of the border.
Local representatives report that areas around Maungdaw, such as Megichong, Kadirbil, Nurullahpara, Mangala, Nolboinnya, Fadangcha, and Hasurata, are experiencing intense battles. The situation remains volatile, with both sides employing heavy weaponry, contributing to the ongoing distress and fear among border communities in Bangladesh.
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